Jajpur, (OT Webdesk): A third-year Political Science student at a Jajpur district college has formally accused his Head of Department (HoD), Niranjan Panda, of repeated sexual harassment, triggering widespread outrage and an official investigation.
According to the student’s written complaint submitted on Saturday, Panda allegedly solicited sexual favours in exchange for better grades and issued threats of academic retaliation for non-compliance.
The complaint details inappropriate behavior, multiple invitations to the HoD’s residence, and a disturbing July 16 incident witnessed by two students.
In response, the college has launched an internal inquiry through a five-member committee with findings due by July 21. The local police have also initiated a parallel investigation.
Notably, Panda was previously arrested in 2021 on similar charges involving male students but was released on bail and reinstated.
The latest allegations come amid heightened scrutiny of Odisha’s educational institutions.
A recent case in Balasore, where a female student died after accusing her HoD of sexual misconduct, has sparked calls for institutional reforms and the adoption of zero-tolerance policies.
Public sentiment demands immediate action and stronger mechanisms to prevent harassment within campus spaces, emphasising the urgency of safeguarding student rights and dignity.
