Bhubaneswar, July 31: Sending out a stern warning to educational institutions, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Wednesday announced that salaries of college officials would be withheld if they fail to implement the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act by forming Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs).

Issuing a clear one-month deadline, Parida emphasized that all colleges in the state must comply with the law and establish ICCs to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for students and staff.

“Implementation of the law is non-negotiable. Institutions that fail to constitute ICCs will face salary stoppage,” she asserted.

While assuring protection for genuine complainants, Parida also cautioned against the misuse of the Act. “Filing false allegations under POSH will not be tolerated and will invite strict action,” she added.

The Deputy CM further announced that the ongoing POSH awareness initiative, which began at Lok Seva Bhawan, will now be taken to the grassroots, extending to educational institutions at the block level.

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