Odisha govt asks colleges, varsities to constitute internal committees under POSH Act

An article published on April 24, 2026 reported the Odisha government's directive and its compliance implications, noting potential loss of recognition for non-compliance and the withholding of admissions and examination permissions.

The order dated April 16 was made public on Thursday night, with the Odisha government publicly communicating the directive to higher educational institutions about constituting internal POSH Act committees and related compliance measures.

On April 16, 2026, the Odisha Higher Education Department issued an order directing all universities, degree colleges, and teacher education institutions in the state to constitute internal committees in accordance with the Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act (POSH Act). The order requires colleges admitting students through the Student Academic Management System (SAMS) to have a functional internal committee; without it, admissions cannot be carried out. It also states that examination permissions for universities will be withheld until a valid internal committee is established. Committees must submit annual reports to Local Complaints Committees (LCCs) with copies to Regional Directors of Education (RDEs). The order outlines measures including campus lighting, CCTV in common areas while respecting privacy norms, elimination of isolated or unsafe spaces, adequate security personnel, and maintenance of visitor records. Institutions must provide safe and hygienic facilities for women, including secure hostel arrangements, functional complaint mechanisms, and emergency response systems. Details of the committee, complaint procedures, and helpline numbers must be displayed on notice boards and websites. RDEs are to ensure strict monitoring and 100% compliance, and all institutions must submit compliance reports to the Higher Education Department at the earliest.