Policy · Code of conduct

How we treat each other.

This code applies to everyone on an HCD Institute programme: students, faculty, mentors, fellows, jury members, staff, partners and visitors, in person and online.

What we expect

Respect, honesty, safety.

RespectTreat everyone with courtesy, whatever their background, ability, gender, religion, caste, language or opinion.
SafetyFollow safety instructions in studios, workshops and labs. Use tools only after a briefing. Stay with your group.
HonestyDo your own work and credit others. See our academic integrity policy.
Care for spacesLook after the rooms, equipment and campuses we use, including IIT Hyderabad and host schools, and follow their rules.
OnlineThe same standards apply in online sessions, group chats and social media.

Never acceptable

Zero tolerance.

Harassment and bullyingIncluding sexual harassment, ragging, threats and intimidation, in person or online.
DiscriminationTreating anyone unfairly because of who they are.
SubstancesAlcohol, tobacco and drugs on any programme involving students.
Unsafe contact with studentsFor adults: private messages, one-to-one meetings behind closed doors, gifts or favours. See our child safety policy.

If the code is broken

Fair, and proportionate.

Report any concern to a programme lead or to dic@hcd.institute. We listen to everyone involved before deciding. Depending on what happened, we may give a warning, remove someone from a session or programme, inform a school or employer, or, where the law requires, inform the authorities.

Concerns about children or sexual harassment follow our child safety & PoSH policy. Last updated: 5 November 2026.

All policiesPolicies home Child safety & PoSH Contact