Odisha's RDE Demands ICC Compliance from Colleges: 7-Day Deadline Issued
Synopsis
In a decisive move, the Regional Directorate of Education in Bhubaneswar has mandated the immediate formation of Internal Complaints Committees across all colleges to ensure compliance and prevent punitive actions. Institutions must act swiftly to avoid restrictions in admissions for the upcoming academic session.
Key Takeaways
Immediate formation of ICCs mandated Seven-day compliance deadline Failure may lead to admission restrictions Background involves serious student welfare concerns Awareness workshops are required to educate staff and students
Bhubaneswar, April 12 (NationPress) The Regional Directorate of Education (RDE) in Bhubaneswar has mandated that all government, aided, unaided, and professional colleges within its jurisdiction must establish Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) immediately to prevent potential punitive measures, as announced by the Odisha government's Higher Education Department on Sunday.
These higher education institutions are required to submit compliance reports within a week. This directive is a follow-up to previous instructions from the state’s Higher Education Department, which urged educational institutions across Odisha to form ICCs.
According to the recent letter issued on April 10 by Dr. Saroj Laxmi Singh, the Regional Director of RDE, colleges must establish these committees in accordance with government regulations to effectively address the complaints and concerns of both students and staff.
Colleges that have already set up ICCs are also required to provide relevant documentation within the specified timeframe.
The directive stresses the importance of compliance, warning that failure to adhere may result in restrictions on admissions for the 2026-27 academic year or other appropriate actions as deemed necessary.
"If this directive is not followed, institutions may face admission restrictions for the 2026-27 session or other suitable actions will be taken," the order states.
It is crucial to note that in 2025, the Higher Education Department had similarly instructed vice-chancellors and college principals to ensure strict adherence to ICC norms.
Institutions of higher education were asked to provide details of ICC members, prominently display their names and contact information at key locations on campus, and hold workshops aimed at raising awareness among students and faculty about the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act.
This directive arose following a tragic incident involving a 20-year-old student from FM College, Balasore, who attempted self-immolation on July 12, 2025, reportedly due to harassment from college faculty. She sadly succumbed to her injuries at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 14, prompting widespread outrage across the state.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the urgency of the RDE's directive on Internal Complaints Committees. This move aims to protect students and staff, ensuring their grievances are addressed adequately and maintaining the integrity of educational institutions in Odisha.
NationPress
3 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs)?
ICCs are committees established in educational institutions to address complaints and grievances related to sexual harassment and other issues faced by students and staff.
What happens if colleges fail to comply with the directive?
Failure to comply may result in restrictions on admissions for the 2026-27 academic session or other appropriate actions as deemed necessary.
Why was this directive issued now?
The directive follows a tragic incident involving a student who attempted self-immolation due to alleged harassment, highlighting the urgent need for compliance and protection measures.
How long do colleges have to comply?
Colleges have been given a deadline of seven days to establish ICCs and submit compliance reports.
What additional actions are colleges required to take?
Colleges must display ICC members' names and contact information on campus and conduct workshops to raise awareness about the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act.
