Objective

The objective of the Code of Conduct Committee is to establish, promote, and enforce high standards of ethics, professionalism, and respect at A.S. Group of Institutions. This policy aims to maintain a safe, fair, and conducive environment for all members of the institution by setting clear guidelines for behavior and ensuring accountability for any violations of these guidelines.

Scope

This policy applies to all students, faculty members, staff, visitors, and other stakeholders of A.S. Group of Institutions, including anyone who interacts with the institution in academic, administrative, or extracurricular capacities.

Composition of the Code of Conduct Committee

• Ms. Ramandeep Kaur (Asst. Prof.) – (Incharge)
• Ms. Heena (Asst. Prof.) – (Member)
• Ms. Mandeep Kaur (Asst. Prof.) – (Incharge)

Roles and Responsibilities

• Chairperson/Head of committee: Lead the committee, oversee investigations, and ensure compliance with institutional policies.
• Faculty Members: Assist in investigating violations, providing recommendations, and maintaining academic integrity within the institution.
• Student Representatives: Act as the voice of the student body, ensuring fairness in the committee’s decisions, and helping with awareness programs.
• Non-Teaching Staff Representative: Assist in implementing the code of conduct in the daily operations of the institution and reporting violations.

Code of Conduct Guidelines

The Code of Conduct applies to behavior in academic, social, and professional settings. Specific guidelines include:

Expected Behavior

• Respect and Integrity: All members of the institution must treat each other with respect and dignity, avoiding any form of discrimination, harassment, or intimidation based on race, gender, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.
• Academic Integrity: Students and faculty must avoid cheating, plagiarism, or any form of dishonesty in their academic work. All academic assessments must be conducted fairly and honestly.
• Professionalism: Students, faculty, and staff are expected to behave professionally, maintaining a positive and productive environment conducive to learning and working.
• Compliance with Laws: All individuals associated with A.S. Group of Institutions are expected to comply with local, national, and international laws that affect their behavior.
• Respect for Property: The institution’s property, including physical, intellectual, and technological resources, must be treated with care and respect. Vandalism or theft will not be tolerated.

Prohibited Behaviors

• Harassment and Bullying: Any form of verbal, physical, or emotional abuse, including but not limited to sexual harassment, will result in disciplinary action.
• Substance Abuse: The use of illegal drugs, alcohol, or other intoxicants is strictly prohibited on campus or during institution-sponsored events.
• Disruption of Educational Activities: Disruptive behavior that impedes teaching, learning, or administrative functions, such as excessive noise or interference with scheduled activities, is prohibited.
• Violence: Physical violence or threats of violence will result in immediate suspension and investigation.
• Discrimination and Bias: Any behavior or action that discriminates against individuals based on race, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, or disability will be addressed with seriousness.
• Violation of Confidentiality: The unauthorized disclosure of private or confidential information about students, faculty, or staff is prohibited.

Procedure for Reporting Violations

Complaint Filing

Any violation of the code of conduct can be reported by students, faculty, staff, or external parties through directly reporting to any member of the Code of Conduct Committee.

Confidentiality

All complaints and investigations will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Information will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the investigation or decision-making process.
Complainants and witnesses will be protected from retaliation.

Investigation Process

Initial Assessment

• Upon receiving a complaint, the Code of Conduct Committee will conduct a preliminary assessment to determine the seriousness of the violation and whether an investigation is warranted.
• The committee will assess whether the complaint falls under the institution’s jurisdiction and whether it requires immediate attention.

Investigation

• If the violation is deemed serious, an investigation will be initiated. The committee will gather evidence, witnesses, and provide the accused individual(s) with an opportunity to explain their actions.
• The investigation process should be completed within a specified time frame.

Decision Making

• The Code of Conduct Committee will review the evidence, determine whether the violation occurred, and decide on appropriate actions.
• The decision will be communicated in writing to the accused, the complainant, and any other relevant parties.

Penalties and Disciplinary Actions

For Students

• Warning: A written warning may be issued for minor infractions.
• Suspension: Temporary suspension from classes, events, or the institution for a specified period.
• Loss of Privileges: Withdrawal of participation in extracurricular activities, hostel accommodation, or other privileges.

For Faculty and Staff

• Counseling/Warning: A formal warning or counseling session for minor violations.
• Suspension: Temporary suspension with or without pay, depending on the nature of the violation.
• Termination: Immediate termination of employment for severe or repeated violations.

For Visitors

• Banning: Banning the individual from entering the premises.
• Reporting to Authorities: If necessary, legal authorities may be contacted if the violation involves criminal activities.

Prevention and Awareness

• Orientation and Training: The Code of Conduct Committee will conduct regular orientation programs and workshops for new students, staff, and faculty to ensure they understand the expectations and the importance of ethical behavior.
• Awareness Campaigns: The committee will organize periodic campaigns to raise awareness about the code of conduct and its implications.

Final Authority

The final authority in all matters related to the Code of Conduct lies with the Code of Conduct Committee.
The committee’s decisions are final, and any failure to comply with the committee’s decisions may result in further disciplinary action.