Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has directed all colleges across the state to constitute Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) within a week, aiming to strengthen safety measures for girl students on campuses.
In a recent communication, the Higher Education Department instructed government, government-aided and private colleges to complete the formation of ICCs and submit compliance reports within the stipulated timeline.
Officials indicated that strict action may be taken against institutions failing to adhere to the directive. Non-compliant colleges could also face restrictions on student enrolment for the 2026–27 academic session, according to sources.
The move comes shortly after the department introduced a comprehensive code of conduct for students and faculty in higher education institutions. The guidelines take a firm position against sexual harassment and inappropriate behaviour on campus.
Colleges have been specifically directed to refer all complaints of sexual harassment to the ICCs for inquiry and necessary action, reinforcing institutional accountability and student safety mechanisms.
