1. Purpose of the POSH Policy

• Promote a professional and respectful workplace culture.
• Prevent incidents of sexual harassment at the workplace.
• Provide a clear grievance redressal mechanism.
• Ensure fair and confidential inquiry procedures.
• Protect the dignity and rights of employees and associated persons.

2. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to all employees, consultants, interns, contractual staff, vendors, and visitors associated with Konark Finserv.

• Permanent and temporary employees
• Interns and trainees
• Consultants and freelancers
• Third-party vendors and service providers
• Remote and virtual workplace interactions

3. Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome act or behavior, whether direct or implied, including but not limited to:

• Physical contact or advances
• Demand or request for sexual favors
• Sexually colored remarks or jokes
• Showing pornography or offensive material
• Verbal, non-verbal, or written inappropriate conduct
• Online harassment through emails, chats, or social platforms

4. Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Konark Finserv shall constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as required under the POSH Act for addressing complaints related to workplace sexual harassment.

• Presiding Officer (Woman Employee)
• Employee Members
• External Member familiar with POSH matters

5. Complaint & Reporting Mechanism

Any aggrieved person may submit a written complaint to the Internal Complaints Committee within the prescribed timeline under applicable law.

• Complaints may be submitted via email or written application
• Confidentiality of complainant shall be maintained
• Retaliation against complainants is strictly prohibited
• Support and assistance may be provided during proceedings

6. Inquiry Procedure

All complaints shall be investigated in a fair, impartial, and timely manner in accordance with the POSH Act and principles of natural justice.

• Equal opportunity to present evidence
• Confidential inquiry proceedings
• Protection against victimization
• Reasonable timeline for resolution

7. Disciplinary Action

If allegations are substantiated, disciplinary actions may include:

• Written warning or apology
• Suspension or termination
• Restriction from workplace access
• Legal action wherever applicable

8. Confidentiality

Konark Finserv maintains strict confidentiality regarding complaints, inquiry proceedings, witness statements, and recommendations.

• Protection of complainant identity
• Secure handling of records and evidence
• Restricted disclosure of proceedings

9. False or Malicious Complaints

Filing intentionally false or malicious complaints may attract disciplinary action. However, inability to substantiate a complaint does not automatically make it false or malicious.

10. Awareness & Training

Konark Finserv may conduct periodic awareness programs and sensitization sessions to promote workplace safety and POSH compliance.

• Employee awareness sessions
• Managerial sensitization programs
• POSH compliance communication

11. Policy Review & Amendments

This POSH Policy may be reviewed and updated periodically in accordance with legal or organizational requirements.

• Periodic compliance review
• Board/management approved amendments
• Implementation of legal updates