Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy

1. Introduction

DAPL (formerly known as Digital Aptech Pvt Ltd) is committed to providing a work environment free from harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. We believe that all employees are entitled to work in an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity. This Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy outlines our commitment to preventing and addressing harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, including full-time, part-time, temporary employees, contractors, consultants, interns, and volunteers. It covers all forms of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation based on protected characteristics under applicable laws.

3. Definitions

3.1 Harassment: Harassment is unwelcome conduct based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

3.2 Discrimination: Discrimination occurs when an individual or group is treated unfavorably because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.

3.3 Retaliation: Retaliation is adverse action taken against an individual for engaging in protected activity, such as reporting harassment or discrimination, participating in an investigation, or opposing discriminatory practices.

4. Prohibited Conduct

4.1 Harassment: Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to:

Verbal harassment, such as derogatory remarks, slurs, or jokes based on protected characteristics.
Physical harassment, including unwanted touching, gestures, or physical interference.
Visual harassment, such as displaying offensive images or materials.

4.2 Discrimination: Examples of discrimination include, but are not limited to:

Refusing to hire or promote individuals based on protected characteristics.
Paying employees differently based on protected characteristics.
Assigning undesirable tasks or opportunities based on protected characteristics.

4.3 Retaliation: Examples of retaliation include, but are not limited to:

Termination, demotion, or adverse employment actions against an employee for reporting harassment or discrimination.
Threats, intimidation, or ostracism of an employee for participating in an investigation.

5. Reporting Procedures

5.1 Reporting Harassment or Discrimination: Employees who experience or witness harassment or discrimination should promptly report the incident to their supervisor, manager, HR department,or POSH committee or any designated individual identified in the company’s policies.

5.2 Confidentiality: DAPL will handle all reports of harassment or discrimination with sensitivity and confidentiality to the extent possible, consistent with conducting a thorough investigation.

6. Investigation and Resolution

6.1 Investigation: DAPL will promptly investigate all reports of harassment or discrimination. Investigations will be conducted impartially, and all parties involved will be treated with respect.

6.2 Corrective Action: If an investigation confirms that harassment or discrimination has occurred, appropriate corrective action will be taken, up to and including disciplinary action, termination of employment, or other measures as deemed necessary.

7. Prevention and Training

7.1 Training: DAPL will provide training on anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies and procedures to all employees. Training will include information on identifying prohibited conduct, reporting procedures, and the consequences of violating company policies.

7.2 Prevention: DAPL will take proactive measures to prevent harassment and discrimination through education, awareness campaigns, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.

8. Non-Retaliation

8.1 Non-Retaliation: DAPL prohibits retaliation against individuals who report harassment or discrimination, participate in an investigation, or oppose discriminatory practices.

9. Compliance

9.1 Compliance: All employees are expected to comply with this Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.