Odisha Colleges Told to Strengthen Anti-Harassment Measures After Balasore Incident

Bhubaneswar: In the aftermath of a shocking self-immolation attempt by a female student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, the Regional Directorate of Education (RDE), Bhubaneswar, has issued a strong directive to all affiliated colleges to strengthen campus safety and prevent sexual harassment.

The directive, issued under Letter No. 4786/RDE dated July 14, comes amid mounting public outrage over the alleged mishandling of the student’s harassment complaint. The RDE has called for strict and immediate implementation of University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines and has warned that any negligence or failure to comply will invite stringent action.

In a message to principals of all colleges under its jurisdiction, the RDE has made it mandatory to constitute or reactivate Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) and Anti-Sexual Harassment Cells. Colleges have also been directed to ensure 24/7 campus surveillance, deploy in-house monitoring squads, and guarantee uninterrupted functioning of CCTV systems in key areas to deter potential misconduct.

Regional Director of Education, Bhubaneswar, emphasized that the department will adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward any lapses. “Any type of laxity in this regard by whosoever shall be brought to book immediately,” the directive stated.

This urgent move comes as part of broader efforts by the Odisha Higher Education Department to restore public faith in the integrity and safety of educational institutions. The Balasore incident has exposed serious shortcomings in grievance redressal mechanisms and institutional accountability.

The RDE’s letter urges college administrations to act proactively and sensitively in handling complaints, especially those involving female students, and to maintain an atmosphere of trust and safety on campuses.

College principals have been instructed to ensure full compliance without delay, and the department will closely monitor implementation across institutions. Strict disciplinary or legal action may be initiated against colleges that fail to comply with the safeguards.