WHISTLE BLOWER
POLICY
introduction
Jeeva Jyothi is committed to the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all its activities. This Whistleblower Policy is designed to provide a safe, confidential, and accessible mechanism for reporting concerns related to wrongdoing, unethical conduct, or violations of policies and laws within the
organization.
Objectives
– To provide a secure platform for staff, volunteers, partners, and beneficiaries to report concerns.
– To investigate disclosures of misconduct fairly and thoroughly.
– To protect whistleblowers from retaliation or victimisation.
Scope
This policy applies to: – All employees, volunteers, interns, consultants, trustees, vendors, and stakeholders of Jeeva Jyothi.
Issues that may be reported under this policy include: – Financial irregularities or fraud – Corruption, bribery, or misuse of resources – Abuse or exploitation (including of children) – Breach of legal, ethical, or policy obligations – Health and safety violations – Human rights violations
Reporting Mechanism
Concerns may be reported: – In person to the designated Whistleblower Committee – Via email:jeevajyothichennai@gmail.com – by letter addressed to: Chairperson, Whistleblower Committee, Jeeva Jyothi No. 17A, IInd Cross Street. K. R. Nagar, Madhavaram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, through a sealed drop box at designated locations. Whistleblowers are encouraged to provide as much detail and supporting evidence as possible to assist in the investigation.
Confidentiality and Protection
The identity of the whistleblower will be kept strictly confidential. – Retaliation, harassment, or victimization of whistleblowers is strictly prohibited and will lead to disciplinary action. – Anonymity is permitted, but it may limit the ability to investigate effectively.
Roles and Responsibilities
Whistleblower Committee: A minimum 3-member committee including
– One independent Board member responsible for receiving and reviewing complaints.
– Executive Director: To ensure action is taken where misconduct is confirmed.
– Board of Directors: To review high-level complaints involving senior management or systemic issues.
Investigation Process
– Acknowledgement of the report within 7 working days.
– Preliminary review to assess credibility and scope.
– Full investigation if warranted, involving relevant personnel.
– Outcomes may include disciplinary action, process improvement, or legal reporting.
– Resolution shared with whistleblower where identity is known and sharing is safe.
False Allegations
Whistleblowers must act in good faith. False or malicious complaints will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action.
Policy Communication
This policy will be prominently displayed at Jeeva Jyothi offices and shared during staff induction.
– Training on this policy will be included in the annual compliance workshop.
Review and Amendments
This policy will be reviewed every two years or as required by law.
Approval
Approved by the Board of Directors, Date: 7.6.2025
Signed by: V. SUSAIRAJ – Managing Trustee