Bhopal Archdiocese Holds Training on Gender Sensitisation, POSH and POCSO

BHOPAL, AUGUST 17, 2026: Around 50 representatives from 17 churches of the Archdiocese of Bhopal took part in a training programme on gender sensitisation, gender-based violence (GBV), prevention of sexual harassment (POSH) and protection of children from sexual offences (POCSO) held at Seva Sadan, Bhopal, on August 16.

Organised by the Women Commission of the Archdiocese of Bhopal, the programme sought to strengthen awareness of gender equality, sexual harassment and child protection while equipping Church communities to create safe and respectful environments.

The opening session on gender sensitisation, facilitated by Ms. Binsy George, examined gender roles, stereotypes and the impact of gender conditioning on attitudes and behaviour in families, Church communities and society. The session stressed equality and respect for human dignity.

A session on gender-based violence covered physical, emotional, psychological and economic violence, including controlling behaviour. Through role plays and interactive exercises, participants examined situations involving domestic violence, economic control, workplace sexual harassment, victim blaming, controlling behaviour within marriage and disclosures of sexual abuse by children.

The exercises emphasised the need to listen without judgement, protect the dignity and safety of survivors and connect them with appropriate support services.

Advocate Harshita Awasthi led sessions on POSH and POCSO, followed by legal awareness on institutional responsibilities and complaint and redress mechanisms. The POSH session highlighted the responsibility of institutions to prevent and address sexual harassment and maintain safe workplaces.

The POCSO session focused on child-centred responses to disclosures of sexual abuse. Participants were sensitised to the importance of avoiding blame and shame, ensuring immediate safety, understanding the limits of confidentiality and making appropriate legal and child-protection referrals.

The programme concluded with a valedictory session and distribution of certificates by Fr. Ishwardas Minj, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Bhopal, followed by Holy Mass.

The training also aimed to enable participants to recognise warning signs, respond appropriately to disclosures, prevent victim-blaming and facilitate timely referrals. With representatives from churches across Bhopal participating, the organisers said the programme would help extend awareness and prevention efforts to parish and community levels throughout the archdiocese.

By Binsy George

President