Cuttack: Ravenshaw University, one of Odisha’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, has withdrawn a controversial directive that prohibited women faculty, staff, and students from remaining on campus after 5:30 pm. The decision came after widespread criticism and intervention by the state’s higher education department.

The now-withdrawn order, issued earlier in the day by the university registrar, had stated:

“No female faculty, staff and students are permitted to remain in the workplace or on campus after 5.30 pm. This decision will remain in place until a formal Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) is issued, which will outline the necessary guidelines and protocols for work hours and safety measures.”

The directive sparked immediate outrage for being discriminatory and regressive, effectively restricting women's freedom on campus under the guise of safety. It was officially revoked through a subsequent order issued later the same day.

Background and Possible Trigger

According to sources, the order may have been a knee-jerk response to growing concerns over campus safety, following the recent suicide of a student who had allegedly faced sexual harassment at a college in Odisha. However, instead of addressing systemic issues or ensuring better safeguards, the university’s decision to impose restrictions on women drew sharp criticism from students, faculty, and rights activists.

“The higher education department stepped in, stating that such an order sends the wrong message and contradicts the principles of gender equality,” said a senior government official.

When contacted, the university registrar declined to elaborate on the rationale behind the directive and only confirmed that the order had been rescinded.