Cuttack (Odisha)-In a controversial move, Ravenshaw University in Cuttack has enforced a time-based restriction on the presence of female staff and students, prohibiting their stay on campus beyond 5:30 PM. The directive, issued by the Vice-Chancellor, cites the absence of a formal Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for late hours as the reason behind the temporary measure.
According to the order, no female faculty, employee, or student will be allowed within the university premises after the stated time until a detailed SOP is prepared. The proposed SOP is expected to define work hours, movement regulations, and comprehensive safety protocols to ensure the well-being of women on campus.
The sudden restriction has triggered debate among students and faculty, with many expressing concerns over gender-based limitations rather than broader institutional safety reforms. While the university administration emphasizes this as a precautionary step, critics argue it reflects a reactive approach to safety and risks impacting academic and professional activities of women.
As discussions continue, the university is under pressure to release a clear, inclusive, and balanced SOP to ensure safety without curtailing the rights of its female community.
