Odisha launches ‘Shaktishree’ initiative after Balasore student's self-immolation

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on July 19 launched Shaktishree, a statewide initiative aimed at enhancing the safety, security, and empowerment of female students and staff in higher education institutions.

The move follows the self-immolation of a 20-year-old student at Balasore’s Fakir Mohan Autonomous College, who alleged sexual harassment and failed to secure justice.

The initiative will be implemented in 16 state universities and 730 government and aided colleges, targeting campuses across Odisha.

A key feature is the establishment of Shaktishree Empowerment Cells in each institution—student-led bodies co-chaired by a woman faculty member and a female student—to promote self-defence, emotional well-being, and peer support.

Each district will also appoint five “Shakti Apas”, experienced women professionals who will mentor students and visit campuses quarterly to guide and support them.

The state is set to launch a mobile app allowing anonymous submissions of complaints (text, audio, video), access to counselling via Tele-MANAS, and a built-in SOS function for emergencies.

Staff and faculty across participating institutions will be required to complete annual online training on the POSH Act (2013) and UGC regulations, while a mandatory code of conduct will govern professional behaviour and gender sensitivity.

To increase security, campuses will install 24×7 CCTV surveillance, monitored via centralized control rooms. Institutions must also file annual safety reports by December 31, detailing safety measures, complaints, and incident resolutions.

CM Majhi described Shaktishree as a “transformative empowerment and self‑defense initiative” to create “safer and more inclusive campuses” for women.

The program marks a significant step in addressing safety gaps in Odisha’s higher education system following recent campus tragedies.