At Lovely Professional University (LPU), the promotion of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct is of utmost importance. In line with this commitment, LPU has implemented a robust Reporting Protection and Whistle-blower Policy to ensure that stakeholders of the University have a safe and confidential platform to report any concerns or instances of misconduct, unethical behaviour, or violations of laws and regulations.
The Reporting Protection and Whistle-blower Policy at LPU aims to foster an environment that encourages individuals to come forward with information without fear of retaliation. It is designed to provide protection and support to those who have reasonable grounds to believe that a violation has occurred or is likely to occur.

LPU is committed to protecting individuals who report suspected or actual instances of bribery or corruption in good faith. Whistle-blowers are encouraged to come forward without fear of retaliation or adverse consequences. Confidential reporting mechanisms are in place to facilitate the reporting of misconduct, ensuring the anonymity of the whistle-blower to the extent possible and protecting them from any form of harassment or victimization.

This policy applies to all the stakeholders of the University, including faculty, staff, students, vendors, contractors, and any other individuals associated with the University. It sets forth a clear framework for reporting, investigating, and addressing reported concerns in a fair, unbiased, and timely manner.

It is crucial for all the stakeholders of the University to understand the seriousness of bribery and corruption and the potential ramifications of engaging in such misconduct. By strictly enforcing The Reporting Protection and Whistle-blower Policy, LPU aims to foster a culture of integrity, ethical behaviour, and accountability, reinforcing its commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct throughout the University.

1. Coverage: The Reporting Protection and Whistle-blower Policy at Lovely Professional University (LPU) applies to all stakeholders of the University, including faculty, staff, students, vendors, contractors, and any other individuals associated with the University.
2. Misconduct and Violations: The policy covers a wide range of misconduct, violations, or concerns that can be reported. This includes, but is not limited to, academic misconduct, financial irregularities, fraud, unethical behaviour, research misconduct, safety violations, discrimination, harassment, bullying, or any other behaviour that violates LPU's policies or ethical standards.
3. Reporting Mechanisms: The policy outlines various channels available for reporting concerns or instances of misconduct. These may include confidential emailing to Division of Human Resource, online reporting platforms (RMS), or direct communication with designated individuals or departments responsible for receiving and addressing reports (OMS).
4. Protection from Retaliation: The policy explicitly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who make good faith reports or participate in investigations. It ensures that whistle-blowers are protected from adverse actions, such as termination, demotion, harassment, or any other form of victimization, as a result of their reporting.
5. Confidentiality and Anonymity: The policy emphasizes the confidentiality of the reporting process. It ensures that the identity of whistle-blowers is protected to the maximum extent possible, and provisions are in place to handle reports anonymously if desired by the whistle-blower.
6. Investigation and Action: The policy establishes a mechanism for the proper investigation of reported concerns. It defines the responsibilities of designated committees or individuals responsible for conducting impartial and objective investigations. It also outlines the actions and sanctions that may be taken if misconduct or violations are substantiated.

Every whistle-blower is expected to familiarize themselves with this policy, comprehend its contents, and comply with its provisions. It is advisable for individuals to gather sufficient factual information before making a report, ensuring that the complaint is substantiated and not based solely on hearsay or rumours. If a complaint is made in good faith but subsequent investigation fails to confirm any misconduct, no action should be taken against the whistle-blower.
However, if an investigation reveals that a complaint was frivolous, malicious, or made with an underlying ulterior motive, It shall attract appropriate disciplinary or legal measures against the implicated whistle-blower.

1. Complaints that are unreadable or difficult to understand, especially if they are handwritten.
2. Complaints that lack clarity and use pseudonyms instead of providing identifiable information.
3. Complaints that are trivial or frivolous in nature, lacking seriousness or significance.
4. Matters that are currently being dealt with by a court of law, the State, National Human Rights Commission, Tribunal, or any other legal or quasi-legal body.
5. Issues that pertain to internal service matters or personal grievances.
6. Being protected under this Policy does not shield individuals from disciplinary consequences if they intentionally make false or bogus allegations or if they have malicious intentions.
7. Whistle-blowers who make three or more Protected Disclosures that are later determined to be mala fide (in bad faith), frivolous, baseless, malicious, or reported without genuine intent, will be disqualified from making further Protected Disclosures under this Policy.

1. Upon completion of the investigation, the findings will be communicated to the whistle-blower in a timely manner, while respecting privacy and confidentiality obligations.
2. If misconduct or violations are substantiated, appropriate actions will be taken to address the issue, which may include disciplinary measures, remedial actions, or policy enhancements.
3. If the reported allegations are not substantiated, the University will provide an explanation to the whistle-blower and take necessary steps to close the case.