Odisha Govt Directs Higher Education Institutions to Form Internal Complaint Committees to Check Sexual Harassment

Bhubaneswar: The Higher Education Department has directed the higher educational institutions across Odisha to form Internal Complaint Committee (IIC) to ensure a safe and secure environment for students and employees on campuses. The institutions have to submit compliance report by 30 September.

In a letter to the registrar, principals of all state public, private and deemed to be universities, government, non-government degree colleges and government teacher education institutions, the Higher Education Department has instructed the concerned authorities to establish ICC and submit compliance reports within six days.

“…Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, it is imperative for all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to ensure a safe and secure environment for their employees and students,” stated the notification of the Higher Education Department.

“To meet the statutory obligations under this Act, each institution is required to constitute an Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) as per Section 4 of the above Act. The ICC is crucial for addressing grievances related to sexual harassment and fostering a positive and respectful workplace. Therefore, you are requested to form the Internal Complaint Committee at the HEI Level and submit compliance to this Department by 30.9.2024 positively”, the notification added.