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Equity Policy Document

Ensuring a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for all members of the SMVIT Debating Society.

Contact Information

Vittala Chaithanya

Equity Head

Mohammad Owais

Equity Head

Nainika

Member, Equity Committee

1. Preamble

1.1 Purpose

This Equity Policy is instituted by the SMVIT Debating Society to ensure a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for all individuals participating in any activities organized, facilitated, or affiliated with the Society.

This Policy operates as a foundational instrument of governance for the internal conduct of the Society's members and participants, and applies uniformly without exception. The Policy is predicated on the principle that debating, as an intellectual pursuit, must remain free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or any conduct that undermines the dignity or equitable participation of any individual.

1.2 Background and Principles

The Society recognizes that inter-personal dynamics within competitive and academic spaces are often shaped by pre-existing social structures and inequities. This Policy is rooted in the following principles:

  • Dignity and Equality: Every participant is entitled to an environment of mutual respect.
  • Accessibility and Inclusion: The Society will undertake all reasonable efforts to ensure its activities are accessible to all.
  • Impact Over Intent: In adjudicating violations, the focus shall be on the impact of the conduct, regardless of intent.
  • Restorative and Educational Objectives: The Society is committed to rehabilitation, mediation, and using equity as an educational tool.
  • Prevention and Proactivity: Equity is a proactive standard, and the Society will cultivate a culture where violations are less likely to arise.

2. Scope of Application

2.1 Applicability

This Policy applies to all persons involved with the SMVIT Debating Society, including members, adjudicators, trainers, guest speakers, committee members, volunteers, and external participants.

3. Prohibited Conduct

All individuals subject to this Policy shall refrain from engaging in any form of conduct that constitutes a breach of equity principles. Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

  • Harassment
  • Bullying
  • Discrimination
  • Intimidation
  • Sexual Harassment
  • Vilification
  • Victimisation
  • Use of Inflammatory or Triggering Language
  • Technology Misuse (unauthorized research, recording without consent, etc.)

For a full detailed breakdown of the policy, please refer to the official document.

View Full Policy Document