While India's rape laws still remain biased against men, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has established new regulations which allow male students to file cases of sexual harassment against men, women and transgenders.

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The UGC's Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment regulations have made sexual harassment gender-neutral, mentioning that it's not only women and transgenders who are susceptible to sexual harassment, the Telegraph reported.

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The Real Issue



Further, the regulation demands swift and decisive action against gender-based violence against employees and students of all sexes. A UGC official told the newspaper that they had noticed instances of male students being harassed as early as 2007, when 2 male students filed a complaint against a Ramjas College teacher.

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The lack of corresponding legislation at national level, that recognises sexual harassment against male students was noted by lawyer Brinda Grover, and it could set an important precedent.

"It is good to encourage a gender-neutral law,", she said.

What Are The Implications



Universities and colleges that do not follow the regulations can face funds cuts and other action. All complaint will be reviewed with a probe in 90 days, followed by action within 30 days of receipt of the report. Guilty students can be rusticated, while employees and teacher face action as per service rules.