Odisha govt warns action against lectures skipping classes, sitting idle in colleges

The Odisha Higher Education Department has warned of strict disciplinary action against lecturers found remaining idle, socialising, or not taking classes during working hours in government-aided colleges. 

The department stated that such negligence could lead to stringent measures, including the withholding of salaries.

Review Exposes Lapses In Teaching Duties

The decision follows a review conducted by the Higher Education Department, during which serious lapses in academic responsibilities were detected. During surprise visits carried out on January 29, 2026, officials found instances of negligence in two government-aided Sanskrit colleges in Cuttack district.

According to the findings, several lecturers were seated in chairs and engaged with their mobile phones instead of conducting classes. The review highlighted that teaching hours were not being utilised appropriately, resulting in a clear violation of government rules and prescribed academic guidelines.

Letter Issued To College Principals

In response to the findings, the Higher Education Department issued a letter to the principals of all government-aided colleges, directing them to ensure strict adherence to teaching schedules and institutional discipline. 

The department made it clear that accountability will be fixed in cases where faculty members fail to perform their assigned duties.

Surprise Inspections To Be Expanded

Following the observations in the Cuttack colleges, the department decided to expand surprise inspections across all government-aided higher educational institutions. Officials said such visits would be conducted regularly to monitor attendance, classroom engagement, and overall academic functioning.

Salary Withholding Among Proposed Measures

As per reports, lecturers found idling, absent, gossiping, or not teaching during designated class hours will face strict action. This may include disciplinary proceedings and withholding of salaries.

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The Higher Education Department reiterated that maintaining academic discipline is essential to uphold the quality of education in government-aided institutions and said further action would be taken wherever similar lapses are detected.