We, GeekyAnts India Private Limited, as the organisers of thegeekconf bring together professionals, students, innovators, and tech enthusiasts for a dynamic blend of networking, learning, and collaboration. Our commitment is to provide a safe, inclusive, and harassment-free environment for everyone regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, age, or religion.

We value every participant's contribution. By taking part in thegeekconf— as an attendee, speaker, sponsor, community partner, or volunteer, you agree to uphold these standards and help us maintain a respectful, welcoming space for all members of our community and to cooperate with event staff enforcing it.

I. Expected Behaviour

All participants are expected to help ensure the event remains welcoming, safe, and engaging for all by:

1. Choosing words that are inclusive and considerate.
2. Valuing diverse perspectives and experiences.
3. Receiving constructive feedback with openness and professionalism.
4. Prioritising the well-being and success of the community over individual preferences.
5. Demonstrating empathy, patience, and courtesy in all interactions.
6. Respecting the venue staff, the public, and property.

II. Unacceptable Behaviour

Behaviours that will not be tolerated at thegeekconf include:

1. Harassment & Discrimination:

1. Violence, threats, or violent language.
2. Sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, ageist, or otherwise discriminatory language, jokes, or conduct.
3. Personal insults, especially those targeting gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, disability, or physical appearance.
4. Deliberate misgendering or use of rejected names.

2. Sexual Misconduct:

1. Sexualised language, imagery, gestures, or behaviour.
2. Inappropriate physical contact without consent.
3. Unwelcome sexual attention or advances.

3. Privacy & Safety Violations:

1. Non-consensual or intrusive recording, photography, filming, or recording.
2. Sharing or threatening to share others' personal information ("doxing").
3. Stalking, following, or deliberate intimidation.

4. Disruption & Dangerous Conduct:

1. Sustained disruption of talks, workshops, or activities.
2. Advocating for or encouraging unacceptable behaviour.
3. Bringing weapons, illegal drugs, or alcohol into the venue.

III. Inclusive Language

We believe the words we choose directly shape the tone and culture of the event. Using inclusive language helps ensure everyone feels acknowledged and respected. Please:

1. Avoid ableist terms such as "crazy," "dumb," or "lame," and choose neutral or descriptive alternatives that do not stigmatise disabilities.
2. Avoid gendered terms like "guys" or "dude" when addressing mixed groups. Instead, opt for inclusive forms of address such as "everyone," "team," "folks," or "friends".

IV. Reporting a Concern

Should you encounter or observe conduct contrary to this Code of Conduct:

1. Address it directly if you feel safe, by calmly asking the person to stop.
2. Seek assistance from event staff immediately if the behaviour continues or if you prefer not to intervene.
3. Event staff can be found at the front desk and are identifiable by official thegeekconf ID cards.
4. Your concerns will be treated seriously and confidentially, with actions that may include engaging venue security or contacting law enforcement, where appropriate.

V. Liability and Enforcement

All participants, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, community partners, and attendees (collectively, "Participants") attend the event entirely at their own risk. We, including our affiliates (subsidiaries, and other entities that control, are controlled by, or are under common control with us), shall have no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any personal injury, illness, property damage, theft, loss, or expense of any kind, whether direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or special, arising during or in connection with participation in the event.

Participants are solely responsible for the safety and security of their personal belongings at all times. Any Participant whose actions, negligence, or misconduct ("Defaulter") cause or contribute to:

1. Injury or harm to any person;
2. Damage to property, including the venue, organiser's equipment, or belongings of others; or
3. Theft, loss, or any unlawful activity;

shall bear full and sole responsibility for all resulting direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages, as well as all related costs, expenses, losses, claims, and legal or enforcement fees, and shall indemnify and hold us harmless from any and all such liabilities.

We, at our sole discretion can take any action necessary to ensure a safe and welcoming environment, including but not limited to issuing verbal or written warnings, removing the Defaulter from the event without refund (if applicable), excluding them from future events, seeking assistance from venue security or law enforcement, or pursuing legal remedies.

Any dispute, claim, or legal proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Code of Conduct shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Bangalore, India.