Cuttack, Jan 31: The Higher Education Department has issued a stern warning to lecturers of all government-aided colleges in the state, announcing strict action against teachers who neglect their duties and skip classes. Officials stated that such negligence, even by well-paid staff, will not be tolerated and may lead to suspension.

On the 29th, department officials conducted a surprise inspection at two Sanskrit-aided colleges in Cuttack district. During the visit, several teachers and non-teaching staff were found absent from classrooms. Some were seen sitting idly in other areas, using mobile phones, while students too were reportedly missing from classes or distracted by their phones.

Officials also checked attendance registers and discovered that the principal and some staff members had not signed them for four consecutive days, a clear violation of government rules and instructions.

The Higher Education Department has directed college authorities to ensure strict compliance with attendance and class schedules, warning that further negligence will invite strict disciplinary action.