1. Preamble
Madras Christian College (MCC), East Tambaram, is committed to nurturing an academic and social environment rooted in integrity, discipline, and excellence. In pursuit of this vision, MCC has adopted a comprehensive Anti-Alcohol/Drug Abuse Policy to ensure a safe, healthy, and productive campus atmosphere, free from the adverse effects of substance abuse.
This policy applies to all students, whether newly admitted or currently enrolled, and is binding throughout their association with the institution.
2. Purpose
- To maintain a safe and drug-free educational environment.
- To protect the health, safety, and well-being of all students, faculty, and staff.
- To support legal compliance in accordance with the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, and other applicable laws.
- To foster a culture of personal responsibility, discipline, and academic excellence.
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All students of MCC.
- All college-owned or operated properties, including academic buildings, halls/hostels, libraries and training sites.
- All college-sponsored events, activities, internships, and study tours, regardless of location.
4. Policy Provisions
4.1 Prohibition on Substances
Students are strictly prohibited from the following activities on campus premises or during any college-related event:
- Purchase, possession, use, consumption, sale, distribution, or storage of alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, tobacco products (including cigarettes), or illegal drugs.
- Smoking within any college building, halls/hostel, or designated non-smoking area.
4.2 Random Substance Testing
- MCC reserves the right to conduct random alcohol or drug testing on students based on reasonable suspicion.
- Testing may be conducted by authorised medical agencies partnered with the college.
4.3 Submission of Test Reports
- Students with a prior record or reasonable suspicion of substance abuse may be mandated to submit periodic drug/alcohol test reports as directed by college authorities.
- Failure to comply may lead to disciplinary proceedings.
4.4 Testing Following Incidents
- In the event of a campus-related accident, altercation, misconduct, or emergency, students involved may be subjected to immediate drug/alcohol testing.
5. Disciplinary Measures and Consequences
If a student is found guilty of violating this policy, whether by direct action or passive participation, the following disciplinary measures may be enforced:
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Offense
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Consequences
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Possession, consumption, or being under the influence of alcohol/drugs
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Immediate suspension pending investigation; possible termination; referral to counselling or rehabilitation programs where appropriate
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Sale, distribution, or promotion of banned substances
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Immediate expulsion and initiation of legal proceedings
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Smoking within the campus premises
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Warning for first offence; subsequent violations will invite suspension/fines/disciplinary probation
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Refusal to undergo mandated testing
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Treated as an admission of violation; disciplinary action initiated accordingly
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All disciplinary actions are without prejudice to any applicable criminal proceedings under Indian law.
6. Mandatory Affidavit
- All students and their parents/guardians must submit a signed Anti-Alcohol/Drug Abuse Affidavit at the time of admission, affirming their understanding and acceptance of this Policy.
7. Support and Counselling
Recognising the need for support, MCC offers confidential counselling services for students who voluntarily seek help for substance-related issues. Students are encouraged to reach out proactively.
8. Review and Amendment
This Policy will be reviewed periodically by the College Administration to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. Amendments, if any, shall be communicated to students through official notifications.
9. Compliance and Acknowledgement
By enrolling at Madras Christian College, students agree to comply with this Anti-Alcohol/Drug Abuse Policy in its entirety. Breaches of the Policy will be dealt with seriously, reflecting MCC’s commitment to upholding the values of a responsible and disciplined academic community.
