The Odisha Higher Education Department has warned of strict disciplinary action against lecturers found idling, gossiping, or skipping classes during working hours in government-aided colleges.
Officials made it clear that negligence could lead to measures such as salary withholding.
The decision followed a departmental review after surprise inspections on January 29, 2026, at two government-aided Sanskrit colleges in Cuttack. Inspectors found lecturers sitting idle and using mobile phones instead of teaching. The review highlighted that teaching hours were not being properly utilised, violating government rules and academic guidelines.
In response, the department issued a letter to principals of all government-aided colleges, directing them to enforce strict adherence to teaching schedules. Accountability will be fixed in cases where faculty members fail to perform their duties.
Officials announced that surprise inspections will be expanded across all government-aided higher educational institutions. These visits will monitor attendance, classroom engagement, and overall academic functioning.
Lecturers found absent, idle, or neglecting classes will face disciplinary proceedings. Salary withholding is among the proposed measures to ensure compliance.
The Higher Education Department reiterated that maintaining academic discipline is essential to uphold the quality of education in government-aided institutions. Officials warned that further action will be taken wherever similar lapses are detected.
