Odisha Government Directs Departments to Ensure Women’s Safety at Workplaces

In the wake of the tragic self-immolation of a college student over alleged sexual harassment and official apathy, the Odisha government on Thursday issued a directive to all departmental heads to ensure the safety and well-being of women in workplaces across the state.

The directive, issued by the General Administration and Public Grievance Department, mandates all departments to review and strengthen existing mechanisms to prevent harassment and provide a secure working environment for women employees.

The move comes after widespread public outrage over the death of a 20-year-old student of Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore, who took the extreme step following alleged inaction on her complaint against a college teacher.

“This incident has shaken the conscience of the state. All departments must ensure that Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act are functional, responsive, and approachable,” the government said in its advisory.

Officials have also been asked to conduct awareness sessions, prominently display contact details of complaint redressal authorities, and create an atmosphere where women feel safe and respected.

The government has assured that strict action will be taken against any official found guilty of neglecting complaints or failing to uphold workplace safety norms. Further reviews and audits of workplace safety protocols are expected in the coming days.