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BARS
Samaaj
Sarkaar
Bazaar

contact@bars.org.in

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Code of Conduct Policy

Preamble

BARS is committed to advancing road safety through collaboration, professionalism, and integrity. The effectiveness of its various Committees depends upon the active participation, ethical conduct, and mutual respect of all members.

This Code of Conduct establishes standards governing attendance, time commitment, professional behaviour, public engagement, and ethical responsibilities of all Committee members. It is intended to promote accountability, transparency, and alignment with the mission of BARS.

1. Applicability

This Policy shall apply to the following:

(a) All Standing Committees

(b) Ad-hoc Committees and Working Groups

(c) Sub-Committees constituted under BARS

(d) Committee Chairs, Convenors, and Members

2. Guiding Principles

All Committee members shall:

(a) Uphold the mission and objectives of BARS.

(b) Act with integrity, impartiality, and professionalism.

(c) Maintain respect and courtesy in all interactions.

(d) Promote evidence-based and non-partisan approaches to road safety.

(e) Safeguard the credibility and reputation of BARS at all times.

3. Attendance and Participation in Meetings

3.1 Attendance Expectations

(a) Members are expected to attend at least 60% of scheduled meetings in a calendar year and shall not be absent for three consecutive meetings.

(b) Inability to attend must be communicated in advance to the Chair or Convenor.

(c) Repeated unexplained absence as in clause 3.1 may result in review of continued membership by the Executive Body.

3.2 Preparation and Engagement

Members shall:

(a) Review agenda papers and documents prior to meetings.

(b) Participate constructively and contribute expertise.

(c) Respect meeting decorum and adhere to the Chair’s directions.

(d) Support timely closure of agenda items.

Members shall not:

(a) Engage in conduct that disrupts proceedings.

(b) Use meetings for personal, political, or commercial promotion.

(c) Divert discussions away from agenda without relevance.

4. Time Commitment and Responsiveness

(a) Committee membership entails reasonable time commitment beyond meeting attendance, including review of documents, participation in working groups, and completion of assigned tasks.

(b) Members shall respond to official communications within a reasonable time frame (ordinarily within 72 hours unless otherwise specified).

(c) Members are expected to undertake assignments they commit to within agreed timelines.

(d) Where a member is unable to fulfil responsibilities due to professional or personal constraints, they are encouraged to inform the Chair promptly.

5. Interaction with Public and External Stakeholders

5.1 Representation

(a) Members speaking in personal capacity shall clearly state that their views are personal and not official positions of BARS.

5.2 Professional Conduct

Members shall:

(a) Engage with stakeholders respectfully and professionally.

(b) Avoid partisan political advocacy while representing BARS.

(c) Promote fact-based and safety-oriented discourse.

Members shall not:

(a) Disclose confidential internal deliberations.

(b) Commit BARS to partnerships, financial obligations, or policy positions without authorisation.

(c) Use BARS affiliation for personal or commercial gain.

6. Code of Behaviour & Harassment Protection

Members shall maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.

7. Confidentiality

Members shall maintain confidentiality of:

(a) Internal discussions and draft documents.

(b) Sensitive data received from partners or authorities.

(c) Any information designated confidential by the Committee or Executive Body.

(d) Confidential information shall not be shared without prior approval.

8. Conflict of Interest

(a) Members must disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest relating to matters under discussion.

(b) Where a conflict exists, the member shall:

(a) Refrain from participating in deliberation and decision-making on the concerned matter.

(b) Allow such disclosure to be recorded in the minutes.

(c) Failure to disclose material conflicts may result in review of committee membership.

9. Decision-Making and Documentation

(a) Committees shall follow established procedures for decision-making (consensus or majority as applicable).

(b) Minutes shall be recorded and circulated within a reasonable time after each meeting.

(c) Action items shall clearly identify responsibility and timelines.

(d) Committees shall periodically report progress to the Executive Body.

10. Ethical Standards

Members shall:

(a) Uphold honesty and transparency.

(b) Avoid acceptance of gifts, favours, or hospitality that may influence impartiality.

(c) Conduct themselves in a manner that enhances public trust in BARS.

11. Review and Compliance

The Governing Council may review compliance with this Policy periodically. Where concerns arise, the member shall be provided an opportunity to present their explanation. Continued non-compliance may lead to advisory, suspension, or removal from the Committee.

12. Adoption

This Code of Conduct shall come into effect upon approval by the Governing Council of BARS and shall be binding on all Committees members henceforth. This Code of Conduct may be reviewed and amended from time to time by the Governing Council, as deemed necessary, and any such amendments shall be binding on all members from the date of approval.

Definitions for the purpose of this Policy

• “BARS” means Bharat Association of Road Safety Volunteers.

• “Governing Council/Executive Body” means the apex decision-making authority of BARS.

• “Committee” includes Standing, Ad-hoc, Sub-Committees, and Working Groups.

• “Member” includes Chairs, Convenors, and appointed members.

• “Confidential Information” means any non-public information relating to BARS operations, partners, or deliberations.