Bhubaneswar: ASBM School of Law, in collaboration with the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), organised a workshop on “Preventive Measures and Awareness on Sexual Harassment at the Workplace”. 

The session was held on July 23 under the visionary leadership of Professor Dr. Biswajeet Pattanayak, Founder and President of ASBM University, who has always emphasized the importance of creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. 

The workshop was conducted to highlight the urgent need to educate and empower students and professionals on legal rights and preventive mechanisms.

The session featured enlightening insights from key resource persons. Prof. (Dr.) Eirene Leela Rout, Chairperson of ICC (Internal Complaints Committee) ASBM University, opened the session by explaining the emotional and legal dimensions of sexual harassment and the crucial role of ICC, which was established under the guidance of Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi. It encourages victims to come forward without fear ensuring justice with sensitivity and confidentiality. 

Dr. Jharasri Paikaray, Assistant Professor at ASBM School of Law, gave a detailed explanation of the POSH Act (2013), its provisions, and the penalties involved. Dr. Rupashree Sahoo, Assistant Professor, shared valuable insights on the ShaktiShree initiative by CM Majhi, promoting women empowerment and psychological support at grassroots levels. It focuses on creating a safe, self- reliant, and inclusive environment for women through various support mechanisms. The session was effectively summarized by Prof. (Dr.) Premanand Ranasingh, Dean of ASBM School of Law, who linked legal frameworks to real-life scenarios, urging students to become torchbearers of change.

The workshop concluded with an engaging interactive session, where students actively voiced their thoughts and concerns about rising crimes, justice delays, and systemic loopholes. Their heartfelt participation reflected a strong sense of awareness and willingness to bring change. The entire session echoed a clear message — awareness, action, and accountability are essential to prevent heinous acts. This workshop reaffirmed its commitment to carrying this movement forward in both policy and practice.