Grievance Redressal Policy

Introduction

The Grievance Redressal Policy at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Chalakudy, provides a structured framework for addressing and resolving grievances of students, faculty, and non-teaching staff. This policy aims to ensure a fair, transparent, and prompt resolution of complaints to maintain a harmonious and productive environment within the college.

Objectives

• To provide a systematic approach for resolving grievances.
• To ensure fairness, transparency, and confidentiality in the grievance redressal process.
• To promote a supportive and respectful atmosphere for all members of the college.
• To address grievances promptly and effectively.

Scope

This policy applies to all students, faculty, and non-teaching staff at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Chalakudy.

Meaning Transferred

• Grievance is any concern, complaint, or dissatisfaction expressed by a student, faculty, or non-teaching staff member regarding any aspect of college operations or environment.
• Complainant is the individual who raises a grievance.
• Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) is a designated committee responsible for addressing and resolving grievances.

Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC)

Composition

• Chairperson: Principal or a senior faculty member appointed by the Principal.
• Secretary: A designated member to maintain records and coordinate committee activities.
• Members: Representatives from faculty, non-teaching staff, and students.

Roles and Responsibilities

• To receive, review, and address grievances.
• To conduct investigations and hearings.
• To recommend actions and monitor their implementation.
• To maintain confidentiality and documentation of all proceedings.

Grievance Redressal Procedure

The College is committed to follow the guidelines issued by the UGC and the Government time to time.

Submission of Grievance

• Grievances can be submitted in writing, either directly or using grievance redressal boxes placed in the different locations in the college for confidentiality.
• The complainant must provide a detailed description of the grievance along with any supporting documents.

Acknowledgment

The Grievance Redressal Committee (GRC) is responsible for periodically opening the grievance redressal boxes, documenting the grievances received, and acknowledging receipt of each grievance.

Preliminary Review

The GRC will conduct a preliminary review to determine the validity and severity of the grievance.

Investigation

A thorough investigation will be conducted, which may involve meetings with the complainant, respondent, and any witnesses.

Hearing

If necessary, a formal hearing will be held, allowing all parties to present their case.

Resolution
The GRC will provide a written resolution, outlining the findings and any actions to be taken, within the stipulated time frame of receiving the grievance.

Appeal

If the complainants are unsatisfied with the resolution, they may appeal to the Principal or an appellate body within a few days of receiving the resolution.

Confidentiality

• All grievances and related information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
• Information will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the resolution process.

Non-Retaliation

• The college prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who raise grievances in good faith.
• Any act of retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action.

Monitoring and Review

• The GRC will monitor the implementation of resolutions and ensure compliance.
• Periodical reviews of the grievance redressal process will be conducted to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.
• Feedback from complainants will be sought to improve the grievance redressal mechanism.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

• Comprehensive records of all grievances, investigations, hearings, and resolutions will be maintained to ensure transparency and accountability.
• An action-taken report, along with the received grievances, will be submitted to the IQAC for review, oversight and documentation.
• All records will be securely stored and retained for a specified duration in accordance with institutional policies.

Training and Awareness

• Regular training sessions will be conducted for faculty, staff, and students on the grievance redressal process.
• Awareness programmes will be organized to inform the college community about the policy and procedures.

Conclusion

In effect, the Grievance Redressal Policy ensures that grievances are addressed promptly, fairly, and effectively, thereby promoting a positive and productive college atmosphere. Sacred Heart College (Autonomous), Chalakudy, is committed to maintaining a fair, balanced and respectful environment for all its members.

Policy Document – View

Minutes – View

Grievance Redressal Committee Members