Section 1: Introduction & Purpose
At Biginius.com, we believe that education is a right, not a privilege, and that every individual deserves equal access to opportunities without fear of bias, prejudice, or unfair treatment. Our commitment to non-discrimination is deeply embedded in our values and operational practices, guiding every aspect of our services — Scholarship Acquisition, College Admission, Educational Loan Assistance, Mess & Hostel Services, and Placement Assistance.

This policy sets forth our unwavering commitment to maintaining an environment where merit, integrity, and fairness prevail, and where no student, applicant, staff member, partner, or service recipient is subjected to discrimination based on any protected category.

The primary objectives of this policy are to:

1. Affirm Biginius.com’s zero-tolerance stance towards discrimination in any form.
2. Outline clear principles for ensuring equality of access across all our services.
3. Specify protected categories to safeguard vulnerable and marginalized individuals.
4. Establish robust reporting and grievance procedures for timely resolution of complaints.
5. Align with relevant laws and best practices, both in Odisha and across India.

Why This Policy Matters
Discrimination can take many forms — overt, subtle, systemic, or accidental. Left unaddressed, it can undermine trust, harm reputations, and limit the potential of individuals who deserve better. In the educational and career support ecosystem, fairness is not optional — it is fundamental. This policy is our pledge to uphold that fairness at every stage of our service delivery.

Statement of Commitment
Biginius.com pledges to:

1. Provide services free from discrimination, harassment, or prejudice.
2. Ensure equal opportunity for all applicants, regardless of social, cultural, or personal identity.
3. Maintain confidentiality in all reporting, investigation, and decision-making processes.
4. Offer training and awareness programs to staff and partners to prevent discriminatory practices.

Our dedication to equality is not just about compliance — it is a reflection of who we are as an organization and our vision of an educational landscape where every student’s potential can be fully realized.

Section 2: Scope & Applicability
This Non-Discrimination Policy applies to all individuals and all services connected to Biginius.com, including but not limited to:

• Scholarship Acquisition Services – Ensuring that all eligible students can apply and be considered for scholarships without bias.
• College Admission Services – Offering equal guidance and opportunities for admission, regardless of background.
• Educational Loan Assistance – Providing fair support in accessing financial aid without prejudice.
• Mess & Hostel Services – Ensuring equitable accommodation and meal access without favoritism or exclusion.
• Placement Assistance Services – Facilitating job placement opportunities with an inclusive and unbiased approach.

Covered Individuals

• Students and Applicants who use our services.
• Staff and Volunteers working at Biginius.com.
• Partners and Affiliates engaged in delivering our services.
• Vendors and Contractors who work on Biginius.com projects.

Geographical Scope
While Biginius.com is based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and primarily serves students in the state, our non-discrimination commitments extend to all individuals we engage with across India, and to any international collaborations or programs we may undertake.

Situations Covered
This policy applies to all interactions, whether they occur:

• In-person (office visits, counseling sessions, events).
• Online (via our website, mobile apps, or digital communication channels).
• Through third-party partners (colleges, lenders, employers, hostels).

Limitations and Exceptions
While Biginius.com strives for maximum inclusivity, certain services may be bound by external eligibility criteria set by government agencies, banks, educational institutions, or legal frameworks. In such cases, we will:

• Clearly communicate these criteria to all applicants.
• Advocate for the removal of unnecessary discriminatory conditions wherever possible.
• Apply our own internal processes in a manner that remains consistent with the spirit of non-discrimination.

By defining who and what this policy covers, Biginius.com ensures that no part of our operations falls outside the reach of our equality and fairness commitments.

Section 3: Legal & Regulatory Compliance
Biginius.com’s Non-Discrimination Policy is built on a solid foundation of Indian constitutional provisions, state-level regulations in Odisha, and international best practices in equality and diversity. We comply with all applicable laws that protect individuals from discrimination, harassment, and unfair treatment.

3.1 Indian Constitutional Provisions
Our policy aligns with the spirit and letter of the Constitution of India, which guarantees:

• Article 14 – Equality before law.
• Article 15 – Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
• Article 16 – Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
• Article 21 – Protection of life and personal liberty, including dignity and non-discrimination.

These constitutional principles serve as the cornerstone of our approach to fairness in service delivery.

3.2 Applicable National Laws
We operate in compliance with:

• The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 – Ensuring accessibility and equal opportunity for persons with disabilities.
• The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 – Preventing discrimination and exploitation of SC/ST individuals.
• The Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 – Eliminating untouchability and related discriminatory practices.
• The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 – Safeguarding the rights of transgender individuals.
• The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976 – Ensuring equal pay for equal work.
• Information Technology Act, 2000 – Governing fair and secure online interactions.

3.3 Odisha State Regulations
As a platform headquartered in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, we remain mindful of:

• Odisha State Scholarship Rules – Ensuring fair access to scholarships for eligible categories.
• Odisha Hostel Accommodation Guidelines – Regulating fair allocation of hostel facilities.
• Odisha Employment Services Framework – Ensuring equal access to employment-related support.

3.4 International Standards
Wherever possible, we adopt globally recognized frameworks, such as:

• UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
• ILO Convention on Discrimination in Employment and Occupation
• UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 – Quality Education
• UN Sustainable Development Goal 10 – Reduced Inequalities

3.5 Commitment to Compliance
Biginius.com commits to:

• Review this policy regularly to ensure legal compliance.
• Updating our practices in response to changes in law or emerging social justice standards.
• Training staff to remain aware of their legal responsibilities.

Compliance is not a box-ticking exercise for us — it is an ongoing responsibility to ensure that every service we provide stands on the right side of the law and ethical principles.

Section 4: Definitions
For clarity and uniform understanding, the following definitions apply to this policy. These terms ensure that all stakeholders — students, staff, and partners — interpret our commitments consistently.

4.1 Discrimination
Any distinction, exclusion, restriction, or preference that has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing equality of treatment in services, opportunities, or benefits.

Examples:

• Refusing to assist an applicant because of their caste or religion.
• Providing faster service to one applicant over another due to personal connections.

4.2 Protected Categories
The characteristics or identities that Biginius.com pledges to protect from discrimination, including:

• Caste
• Religion or belief
• Race or ethnicity
• Gender and gender identity
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Age
• Socio-economic status
• Place of origin
• Language
• Marital status

4.3 Harassment
Unwelcome conduct (verbal, physical, or online) that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Harassment may be direct, indirect, or systemic.

4.4 Equal Opportunity
The principle of providing every individual the same chances to access benefits, without preferential treatment or unjust exclusion.

4.5 Reasonable Accommodation
Necessary and appropriate modifications to ensure that persons with disabilities or unique needs can participate equally in services.

4.6 Victimization
Any retaliatory action taken against a person for reporting discrimination or supporting someone else’s complaint.

Section 5: Core Principles of Non-Discrimination
Our Core Principles are the foundation on which all Biginius.com services are built. They serve as guiding standards for how we treat students, staff, and partners, and they shape our decision-making at every level.

5.1 Equality of Access
Every student or applicant has the right to access our services without artificial barriers. This means:

• No eligibility screening based on caste, religion, gender, or socio-economic background, unless mandated by external authority (and even then, we advocate for fairness).
• Clear, transparent, and publicly available service criteria.
• Equal consideration of all applications received within deadlines.

5.2 Merit-Based Decisions
Where decisions involve selection, shortlisting, or prioritization (e.g., scholarship nominations, placement opportunities), choices are based solely on:

• Academic performance
• Relevant skills or qualifications
• Documented need
• Applicable official guidelines

Merit must be applied consistently and without bias.

5.3 Inclusivity
Our operations strive to create an environment where individuals feel welcomed, respected, and valued. Inclusivity is not about tolerating differences — it is about actively celebrating them.

5.4 Transparency
We commit to:

• Publishing clear service descriptions and eligibility conditions.
• Communicating any limitations openly before accepting applications.
• Providing honest explanations if an application cannot be supported.

5.5 Respect for Dignity
Every interaction — whether in-person, via phone, or online — must uphold the dignity of the individual. Disrespectful remarks, stereotyping, or dismissive behavior are prohibited.

5.6 Accountability
Biginius.com accepts that responsibility for non-discrimination lies with us — from senior management to front-line staff. We actively monitor our processes for fairness.

Section 6: Protected Categories
Biginius.com explicitly protects individuals from discrimination in relation to the following categories. These protections apply to all services we offer, in all locations, for all interactions.

6.1 Caste
No person shall be denied service or treated differently because of their caste, whether Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, Other Backward Class, or otherwise. Caste-based prejudice is strictly prohibited.

6.2 Religion or Belief
We respect all faiths and belief systems, as well as the right to hold no religious belief. No applicant shall be favored or disadvantaged on this basis.

6.3 Race or Ethnicity
Ethnic origin, language group, or cultural background must not influence service delivery.

6.4 Gender and Gender Identity
We affirm the rights of all genders, including transgender and non-binary individuals, to access our services without prejudice.

6.5 Sexual Orientation
Applicants will not be treated differently because of their sexual orientation. Harassment or derogatory comments based on sexual orientation are prohibited.

6.6 Disability
We provide reasonable accommodations to ensure persons with disabilities can access our services equally. This includes accessible facilities, alternative communication formats, and extended timelines where needed.

6.7 Age
Services are provided without bias toward age, except where age limits are explicitly required by scholarship providers, lenders, or employers.

6.8 Socio-Economic Status
No individual will be excluded because of their financial background. In fact, certain services (e.g., scholarship assistance) may prioritize economically disadvantaged students where appropriate.

6.9 Place of Origin & Language
We will not discriminate based on an applicant’s birthplace, hometown, or mother tongue. Efforts will be made to provide assistance in languages commonly used by our audience.

6.10 Marital Status
No applicant shall face discrimination for being single, married, divorced, or widowed.

Section 7: Equal Opportunity Commitments
Biginius.com’s Equal Opportunity Commitments go beyond simply avoiding discrimination — we actively work to ensure every individual has a fair and equal chance to benefit from our services.

7.1 Commitment to Fairness
We ensure that all decisions, from application processing to final service delivery, are:

• Based on objective and transparent criteria.
• Free from favoritism, nepotism, or bias.
• Consistently applied to all individuals in similar situations.

7.2 Proactive Inclusion
We reach out to underrepresented groups and communities to ensure they are aware of and can access our services. This includes targeted awareness drives in rural areas, digital campaigns in multiple languages, and partnerships with community organizations.

7.3 Non-Preferential Treatment
We strictly prohibit:

• Prioritizing services for friends, family, or associates of staff.
• Offering “special treatment” to any applicant in exchange for personal gain.
• Informal or hidden eligibility requirements.

7.4 Equal Access for All Service Channels
Whether accessing services through our website, physical office, WhatsApp, email, or partner institutions, applicants must experience the same level of service quality and fairness.

7.5 Review and Monitoring
We conduct periodic reviews of our processes to identify and eliminate any unintentional barriers to equality.

Section 8: Service-Specific Commitments
While our core principles apply across all operations, each Biginius.com service has unique processes and potential risk points where discrimination could occur.
This section outlines specific protections for each service.

8.1 Scholarship Acquisition
Our Scholarship Acquisition service is dedicated to ensuring that financial support opportunities reach all deserving students, regardless of background.

Commitments:

1. Equal Outreach – Scholarship information will be distributed to all eligible students without targeting or excluding any community.
2. Neutral Evaluation – Shortlisting is based solely on scholarship criteria (academic performance, income limits, etc.) without bias toward personal characteristics.
3. Accessible Assistance – We offer help in multiple languages and through various communication channels to accommodate applicants from diverse regions.
4. Transparent Communication – Applicants will receive honest updates about their application status and reasons if they do not qualify.
5. Confidentiality – Personal information, especially relating to caste, religion, or income, will be kept secure and used only for official purposes.

8.2 College Admission Assistance
We assist students in securing admission to colleges while maintaining a strict non-discrimination approach.

Commitments:

1. No Discriminatory Recommendations – Our counselors will not guide students toward or away from specific colleges based on caste, religion, gender, or other protected categories.
2. Merit- and Preference-Based Guidance – College options will be recommended based on academic merit, location preference, course choice, and budget — never personal bias.
3. Equal Support for All Streams – Whether a student chooses Arts, Science, Commerce, or Vocational courses, the level of assistance remains equal.
4. Transparent Fee Disclosure – Any associated costs (college fees, service fees) will be disclosed clearly to avoid financial bias.
5. Inclusive Counseling Environment – All counseling sessions must be respectful, private, and free from prejudice.

8.3 Educational Loan Assistance
Financial assistance can be life-changing — and must be provided fairly.

Commitments:

1. Impartial Loan Guidance – Loan options will be presented without bias toward any bank or financial institution unless based on objective suitability.
2. No Rejection Based on Protected Categories – Applicants will not be refused assistance for reasons unrelated to financial or academic criteria.
3. Reasonable Accommodation – Applicants with disabilities or language barriers will receive modified support to complete loan paperwork.
4. Equal Representation to Lenders – We will present all applicants honestly and equally to lenders.
5. Fair Prioritization – Where multiple applications are being processed, priority is determined by submission date and urgency — not personal relationships.

8.4 Mess & Hostel Services
Accommodation and food services are essential for many students, and they must be managed with fairness.

Commitments:

1. Equal Allocation – Hostel rooms and mess services are assigned without discrimination.
2. Dietary Considerations – Where possible, meal plans will accommodate religious, cultural, and medical dietary needs.
3. No Segregation – Students will not be separated in dining or lodging areas based on caste, religion, or other protected categories.
4. Complaint Handling – Issues related to food quality, room conditions, or behavior will be addressed fairly and without bias.
5. Safety and Respect – All residents are entitled to a secure and respectful environment.

8.5 Placement Assistance
Our Placement Assistance program is designed to connect students with job opportunities without prejudice.

Commitments:

1. Equal Job Access – All eligible students are informed about job openings without selective communication.
2. Non-Biased Recommendation – Candidate referrals to employers are based solely on qualifications, skills, and job fit.
3. Employer Partnerships – We work only with employers who respect non-discrimination principles.
4. Transparent Selection Criteria – Where an employer provides criteria, we ensure they are lawful and non-discriminatory.
5. Support for Vulnerable Groups – Additional job-readiness support is offered to students from disadvantaged backgrounds without excluding others.

Section 9: Prohibited Conduct & Examples
Biginius.com enforces a zero-tolerance policy toward discrimination, harassment, and any conduct that undermines fairness. This applies to staff, volunteers, contractors, partners, and even applicants or beneficiaries engaging with our services.

9.1 Discrimination
Prohibited forms of discrimination include, but are not limited to:

• Direct Discrimination – Treating someone less favorably because of a protected category.
  Example: Rejecting a hostel application because the student belongs to a particular caste.
• Indirect Discrimination – Implementing a rule or policy that appears neutral but disproportionately disadvantages a protected group.
  Example: Requiring only English-language application forms without offering translations.
• Systemic Discrimination – Embedded practices that consistently disadvantage certain groups.
  Example: Always prioritizing candidates from urban areas for job placements.

9.2 Harassment
Any unwelcome conduct (verbal, written, or physical) that creates a hostile or intimidating environment.
Examples include:

• Mocking someone’s accent, dress, or cultural practices.
• Sending derogatory or offensive messages via email, WhatsApp, or other digital platforms.
• Making sexist, racist, or caste-based jokes.

9.3 Victimization
Taking retaliatory action against someone who reports discrimination or supports another’s complaint.
Example: Lowering a student’s priority in placement services after they raised a bias concern.

9.4 Other Prohibited Practices

• Nepotism – Giving preference to friends or relatives over more qualified applicants.
• Favoritism – Offering faster processing or better opportunities to certain individuals without justification.
• Exclusion – Deliberately withholding information about opportunities from eligible students.

Important:
These rules are non-negotiable. Any violation may result in disciplinary action, service termination, or legal escalation.

Section 10: Reporting & Grievance Procedure
Biginius.com encourages immediate reporting of discrimination or harassment. We ensure that every complaint is taken seriously, investigated promptly, and resolved fairly.

10.1 Who Can Report

• Any student, applicant, or beneficiary of our services.
• Current or former staff members.
• Volunteers, contractors, or partners.
• Witnesses to discriminatory conduct.

10.2 How to Report
Reports can be made through:

• Email: [email protected]
• WhatsApp Hotline: +91-XXXXXXXXXX
• In-Person: At our Bhubaneswar office during business hours.
• Website Form: Secure grievance submission portal on biginius.com.

10.3 Information to Provide
While anonymous reports are accepted, providing the following will help investigations:

• Name and contact details (optional if anonymity desired).
• Date, time, and location of the incident.
• Names of persons involved.
• Description of the conduct.
• Any witnesses or supporting evidence (screenshots, documents, etc.).

10.4 Confidentiality
We guarantee:

• The identity of the complainant will be kept private, except where disclosure is legally required.
• All records will be stored securely and accessible only to the investigation team.

10.5 No Retaliation
Retaliation against anyone who reports discrimination in good faith is strictly prohibited and will itself be treated as a disciplinary violation.

10.6 Grievance Review Timeline

• Acknowledgement: Within 2 working days of receiving the complaint.
• Investigation Start: Within 5 working days.
• Resolution Target: Within 30 days, unless additional time is required for complex cases.

Section 11: Investigation Process
The investigation process at Biginius.com is designed to be fair, transparent, and efficient, ensuring that all parties are treated with dignity and respect.

11.1 Guiding Principles

1. Impartiality – Investigations will be conducted without bias, ensuring no conflict of interest.
2. Confidentiality – Information shared will only be used for the purpose of resolving the complaint.
3. Timeliness – Every effort will be made to conclude investigations within a reasonable timeframe.
4. Sensitivity – Respect for cultural, social, and personal sensitivities during inquiry.

11.2 Investigation Steps

1. Acknowledgement – The complainant is informed in writing that their complaint has been received.
2. Preliminary Review – Initial assessment to determine if the complaint falls under this policy.
3. Assignment of Investigator(s) – A trained staff member or committee is appointed to handle the case.
4. Information Gathering – This includes:
   • Interviews with the complainant.
   • Interviews with the accused.
   • Statements from witnesses.
   • Review of documents, digital evidence, and records.
5. Analysis – Evidence is reviewed against the policy and relevant laws.
6. Draft Findings – A written summary of facts, conclusions, and recommendations.
7. Decision – Management reviews findings and determines the appropriate course of action.
8. Communication of Outcome – Both the complainant and the respondent are informed of the final decision.

11.3 Rights of All Parties

• Complainant – Right to be heard, to present evidence, and to be informed of the outcome.
• Respondent – Right to respond to allegations and to present their side.
• Witnesses – Protection from retaliation.

11.4 Record-Keeping
All investigation records will be stored securely for at least three years, in compliance with applicable regulations.

Section 12: Corrective Actions & Remedies
If an investigation concludes that a violation of this Non-Discrimination Policy has occurred, Biginius.com will take prompt and appropriate corrective measures.

12.1 Possible Corrective Actions

For Staff or Volunteers:

• Verbal or written warning.
• Mandatory training on non-discrimination and inclusion.
• Suspension or reassignment.
• Termination of employment or volunteer role.

For Applicants or Service Users:

• Temporary suspension from services.
• Permanent denial of services in severe cases.

For Partners, Vendors, or Institutions:

• Written warning and requirement to take corrective steps.
• Termination of contracts or partnerships.

12.2 Remedies for the Complainant

• Restoration of Services – If services were unfairly denied or delayed, immediate restoration.
• Compensatory Support – Where possible, assistance to recover lost opportunities.
• Assurance of Non-Retaliation – Continuous monitoring to ensure no further harassment or discrimination.

12.3 Prevention of Future Incidents
Following each case, Biginius.com will:

• Review internal processes to identify gaps.
• Provide targeted training to relevant staff.
• Update the Non-Discrimination Policy if needed.

Section 13: Training & Awareness
Biginius.com recognizes that a policy is only as strong as the understanding and commitment of the people who apply it.
We therefore invest in continuous training and awareness to ensure that all staff, volunteers, and partners uphold the principles of non-discrimination.

13.1 Mandatory Training

• Induction Training – All new staff, volunteers, and contractors receive training on our Non-Discrimination Policy within their first week.
• Annual Refresher Sessions – Yearly training is mandatory for all personnel.
• Specialized Workshops – Additional sessions for team members working directly with vulnerable or marginalized groups.

13.2 Training Content

• Understanding protected categories.
• Identifying direct, indirect, and systemic discrimination.
• Effective communication and cultural sensitivity.
• Handling complaints with empathy and neutrality.

13.3 Awareness Campaigns

• Posters, brochures, and digital banners summarizing the policy are displayed at the office and hostel locations.
• Awareness messages are sent via email, WhatsApp, and our website.
• Inclusion of a “Non-Discrimination Commitment” clause in service contracts.

Section 14: Monitoring & Review
To ensure this policy remains effective, Biginius.com implements ongoing monitoring and regular reviews.

14.1 Monitoring Activities

• Random Service Audits – Checking application processing times, communication records, and allocation of opportunities for fairness.
• Feedback Channels – Encouraging students and partners to share experiences confidentially.
• Case Analysis – Reviewing resolved complaints for patterns or systemic issues.

14.2 Review Schedule

• Annual Review – The policy will be reviewed once every 12 months to ensure alignment with laws, best practices, and operational realities.
• Mid-Year Updates – If major legal or organizational changes occur, updates will be made immediately.

14.3 Involvement of Stakeholders
Students, staff, and partners will be invited to contribute feedback during policy reviews to ensure it remains practical and relevant.

Section 15: Policy Amendments & Approval
Biginius.com is committed to keeping this policy relevant, practical, and effective.

15.1 Amendments

• Amendments may be initiated by management, legal advisors, or as a result of stakeholder feedback.
• All changes must be documented, dated, and communicated to all staff and service users.
• Updated versions will be published on the Biginius.com website.

15.2 Approval Authority
This policy, and any subsequent amendments, must be approved by:

• Founder & Director, Biginius.com
• Legal Compliance Officer
• Policy Review Committee (if in session)

15.3 Effective Date
This Non-Discrimination Policy takes effect on [Insert Date] and remains in force until replaced or formally withdrawn.