Frequently Asked Questions
Why whistle-blower mechanism is important to us?
As per the section 177 of the Companies Act 2013, it is mandatory for every listed company to have a whistle-blower mechanism. Though, it is not mandatory to outsource but we have decided to appoint Ethics Helpline to receive the complaints from you.
What is the role of Ethics Helpline managed by KPMG?
The Ethics Helpline is an independent, secure, anonymous and confidential reporting platform to report any unethical conduct. The Ethics Helpline will attend to your complaint and highlight it to the senior management at KPMG.
What type of potential incidents can be reported on the Ethics Helpline?
Any allegation which falls under the scope identified below but not limited to, can be reported to the Ethics Helpline:
1. Acceptance of kickbacks
2. Bribery and/or corruption
3. Child labor
4. Claiming of false reimbursement expenses
5. Concurrent employment
6. Conflict of interest
7. Discrimination, victimization or bullying
8. Financial fraud of any nature
9. Harassment of any nature other than Sexual Harassment
10. Inappropriate use of social media
11. Insider trading
12. Leak/suspected leak of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information
13. Misappropriation of Company assets/ resources
14. Misrepresentation of Company’s financial books and records
15. Misuse of authority
16. Sexual harassment
17. Unauthorized use of Company confidential/ proprietary information
18. Unfair trade practices and/ or anti-competitive behavior
19. Violation of any laws or regulations applicable to the Company
20. Violation of human rights
21. Violation of the environment, health and safety guidelines.
What is a Protected Disclosure?
A Protect Disclosure means any communication made in good faith that discloses or demonstrates information that may evidence unethical behaviour, actual or suspected, fraud or violation of the Code or any other unethical or improper activity, abuse of authority by any Director or employee, misuse or improper use of accounting policies and procedures resulting in misrepresentation of accounts and financial statements.
Is it mandatory to disclose the identity while reporting a Protected Disclosure?
You may choose to remain anonymous or share your identity. While reporting anonymously, you need to share the following minimum information:
1. Name, designation and location of the Subject
2. Location of the incident
3. Evidence or source of evidence
4. Duration/Frequency of the incident
5. Detailed description of the incident
It is recommended that you share your contact details as it will help in swift closure of the complaint.
If I don’t feel comfortable making my secure report from my office computer, what are my other options?
We uses the latest encryption and authentication technology, ensuring that your communications on our web site are secure and private. The ‘https’ keyword in the location bar when submitting information ensures that the connection is encrypted.