Obscene remarks by lecturer trigger row in Odisha women’s college; ICC probe on

The students have alleged that those who filed complaints against the lecturer are being threatened, heightening their sense of insecurity on campus.

Government Women’s College, Sambalpur (Photo | Facebook)

SAMBALPUR: A fresh controversy has erupted at the Government Women’s College in Sambalpur after allegations of inappropriate and obscene remarks by a lecturer surfaced at the institution.

According to reports, a lecturer has been allegedly making objectionable and sexually suggestive comments towards students during classes repeatedly. In the last week of March, the matter was formally reported to the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) which has initiated an inquiry.

However, the lecturer in question continues to take regular classes even before the investigation has been concluded, triggering resentment among students. The students have alleged that those who filed complaints against the lecturer are being threatened, heightening their sense of insecurity on campus.

Sources said at least four students initially reported the issue to a faculty member. Subsequently, the students and the faculty member submitted written complaints to the college principal, seeking action against the lecturer. It was also alleged that the lecturer misbehaved with the faculty member who was approached by the students.

Incidentally, the lecturer had earlier faced similar allegations at a college in Sundargarh where he was previously posted. Instead of strict disciplinary action, he was transferred to the women’s college in Sambalpur.

On Friday, a delegation of Progressive Sambalpur, a city-based organisation, led by convenor Sanjit Mohanty visited the college to press for immediate action. In the absence of the principal, the team met in-charge faculty member Yogesh Kumar Bhoi and demanded that the lecturer be barred from taking classes until the ICC completes its inquiry.

The delegation alleged that the accused was threatening the complainants and attempting to influence their families to suppress the matter. Mohanty sought the intervention of Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan in the matter.

College authorities acknowledged receiving complaints against the lecturer and confirmed that the ICC is currently investigating the matter.