Allegation of Misconduct

Research misconduct includes fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism in research proposal, execution, review, or reporting. It excludes honest errors or differences in opinion. Misconduct is characterized by a significant deviation from accepted practices, intentional or negligent actions, and verifiable allegations.
Fabrication: Creating and reporting fictitious data or results.
Falsification: Manipulating research materials, processes, data, or results, misrepresenting the research record.
Plagiarism: Using another’s ideas, processes, results, or words without proper attribution.
Breach of Confidentiality: Deviating from agreed-upon confidentiality terms regarding research records.
Research Record: Includes all data and results comprising research facts, such as proposals, reports, articles, and materials related to manuscript submission or inquiry.

Indian Journal of Mental Health and Neurosciences policy for managing allegations of research misconduct is based on the guidelines of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), the World Association of Medical Editors (WAME), and the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE).

Handling of Misconduct:
Reporting: Allegations of misconduct should be reported to the editorial office at editorijmhns@gmail.com

Confidentiality: Complainant’s identity may remain confidential, subject to legal constraints.
Initial Assessment: The Editor-in- Chief determines if an allegation warrants an inquiry, based on initial review.
Inquiry Process: Allegations are investigated following journal policy, adapted from COPE Guidelines. Proper custody and documentation of research records are ensured.
Outcomes:
Unsubstantiated Allegations: If allegations are not corroborated, they are dismissed without further action.
Substantiated Allegations: If allegations are confirmed, appropriate actions are taken based on COPE guidelines and the severity of misconduct.
Reporting: Final Investigatory Reports are submitted to the editorial board, and actions may include corrections and retractions

Appeals: Accused individuals have the right to appeal decisions within 30 days of notification.