Conducting an Effective Domestic Inquiry

A Domestic Inquiry (DI) is a critical aspect of Industrial Law, safeguarding employees’ rights to fair hearing and job security while empowering employers to enforce discipline lawfully. This training program systematically addresses the legal framework, procedures, and best practices for conducting an effective domestic inquiry.

By incorporating real-life case studies, role-playing exercises, and industrial court awards, participants will gain practical insights into managing DI proceedings professionally and in compliance with legal standards.

This course is ideal for:

Human Resource Practitioners and Executives
HR Managers, Supervisors, and Officers
Line Managers and Supervisors
Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
Office Managers and Administrators
General Affairs Managers and Executives
Personal Assistants and anyone involved in DI proceedings

Legal Framework: Understand the laws governing domestic inquiries.
Fair Procedures: Conduct DI proceedings systematically and avoid procedural lapses.
Evidence Management: Handle evidence, understand the burden of proof, and ensure unbiased decisions.
Disciplinary Action: Impose appropriate penalties in alignment with legal standards.
Appeals Process: Manage and respond to appeals effectively.

By the end of this course, participants will:

Understand the importance and legal basis of domestic inquiries.
Follow a step-by-step procedure to conduct fair and lawful DI proceedings.
Evaluate evidence and apply the burden of proof during inquiries.
Avoid bias and ensure a fair hearing for all involved parties.
Administer appropriate penalties and manage appeals judiciously.

Module 1: Introduction to Domestic Inquiry

Purpose and significance of domestic inquiries
Legal context and industrial court perspectives

Module 2: The Domestic Inquiry Procedure

Understanding the law on domestic inquiries
Conducting a preliminary inquiry
Steps to initiate and execute a domestic inquiry
Mock session: Role-play on conducting a domestic inquiry

Module 3: Evidence and Burden of Proof

Types of evidence and their admissibility
Establishing the burden of proof in DI proceedings

Module 4: Rule Against Bias

Understanding biases and their impact on DI fairness
Role-play exercise: Ensuring impartiality in DI proceedings

Module 5: Penalties

Guidelines for imposing disciplinary actions
Ensuring consistency and fairness in penalties

Module 6: Appeals

Understanding the appeals process
Managing and responding to appeals appropriately

This training equips participants with the knowledge and skills to manage domestic inquiries effectively, ensuring compliance with legal standards and fostering workplace fairness. By mastering DI procedures, participants can mitigate risks, enhance organizational integrity, and maintain harmonious employee relations.

—