The Procedure for Handling Student Complaints & the Subsequent Inquiry Process at the University are as follows:
Procedure of Complaint
General Complaints:
Students experiencing academic, administrative, personal, or disciplinary issues may seek help by contacting any of the following:
Head of Department (HOD), Proctor, Dean, Centre Director/Secretary, Dean of Student Welfare (DSW), or Chief Proctor.
Complaints can be submitted via email, written application, or verbal communication.
Complaints related to Ragging:
The Discipline Committee, Anti-Ragging Squad, and Anti-Ragging Committee have been constituted to address issues related to ragging and to ensure the safety and well-being of all students within the University.
Freshers are encouraged to approach the concerned committee members to register any grievances or report any incidents of ragging.
Hostel and Mess-Related Complaints:
For students residing in hostels, any complaints related to hostel administration or mess facilities can be directed to the Warden, Chief Warden, DSW, Department HOD or Dean.
Complaints Related to Women’s Harassment:
Female students facing harassment or disciplinary concerns may approach the Coordinator of the Women’s Grievance Cell, DSW,
or Chief Proctor. All complaints regarding sexual harassment of women in the workplace are handled by the Women’s Grievance Cell in accordance with the Vishakha Guidelines.
Procedure of Inquiry
The Proctorial Board initiates an inquiry if the complaint is deemed valid, following these steps:
Complainant's Statement:
The complainant is called for a hearing, and their statement is recorded.
Accused's Statement:
The accused person(s) is called to provide their statement.
Witness Depositions:
Witnesses identified by both parties are listed and called to record their statements.
Additional Evidence:
The accused and the complainant undergo cross-examination.
Examination of Evidence:
: If any material evidence like audio/video recordings or documents is available, it is examined, and its authenticity is verified.
Preliminary Report and Suspension:
A comprehensive report is prepared, outlining the specific charges against the accused. A show-cause notice is issued, and the accused is suspended from classes until they submit their defense and a punishment is decided.
Defense Examination:
The accused's defense, submitted in response to the show-cause notice, is carefully reviewed and examined.
Recommendation for Action:
Based on the "Students' Discipline and Conduct Rules," a report is prepared, recommending appropriate disciplinary action.
Final Decision:
The final report and recommendations are submitted to the Vice-Chancellor for approval and final decision.
Communication of Punishment:
The awarded punishment is conveyed to the student, bearing the signatures of the Chief Proctor and Vice-Chancellor.
Right to Appeal:
The punished student has the right to appeal against the punishment, and the Chairman is the authorized person to handle such appeals.
This step-by-step process ensures a structured and fair approach to addressing student complaints and conducting inquiries, while also providing the accused with an opportunity to defend themselves and appeal the decision if necessary.