NHRC Special Monitor Visits IIT Bhubaneswar, Commends Inclusive and Rights-Based Campus Initiatives
Bhubaneswar, 25thMarch 2026:Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar hosted Prof. Kanhaiya Tripathi, Special Monitor, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Government of India, on 24th March 2026. The visit focused on reviewing the Institute’s initiatives related to human rights, gender equality, inclusivity, and community welfare.
The visit commenced with an interaction with the Institute leadership, led by Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar, followed by a formal session at the Senate Hall, where a detailed presentation was made on IIT Bhubaneswar’s institutional mechanisms for promoting a safe, equitable, and inclusive campus environment.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Rajesh Roshan Dash, Dean (Student Affairs) emphasized the Institute’s commitment to fostering a culture of dignity, equality, and mutual respect, noting that inclusivity is embedded not only in policy frameworks but also in everyday institutional practices.
Presenting the initiatives, Dr. Prama Bhattacharya, Member Secretary, Women Welfare Committee of the Institute, highlighted the role of statutory bodies such as the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and the Women’s Welfare Committee (WWC), along with a range of programmes aimed at gender sensitization, student well-being, and inclusive growth. The presentation also showcased healthcare services, mental wellness support, outreach to adopted villages, and welfare measures for migrant workers’ families.
In his remarks, Prof. Tripathi appreciated the Institute’s comprehensive approach to human rights and inclusivity, observing that the campus environment and initiatives reflect a progressive and holistic model not commonly seen across institutions. Drawing from his visits to other premier institutions, he noted that IIT Bhubaneswar stands out for integrating infrastructure, awareness, and sensitivity toward human rights.He underscored that human rights must go beyond formal structures and become part of everyday consciousness, emphasizing dignity and equality in both perception and practice. Interacting with the audience, he highlighted the need for greater awareness among students regarding human rights and encouraged institutions to strengthen engagement in this area.Prof. Tripathi also suggested the development of a dedicated platform for human rights initiatives within the Institute, integrating activities related to gender equality, social justice, and awareness. He further emphasized the importance of role models and symbolic representation, recommending that contributions of prominent figures in human rights be showcased to inspire students.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Bamadev Acharya, Registrar of the Institute, who reiterated the Institute’s commitment to advancing inclusive practices, community engagement, and social responsibility. He highlighted several initiatives, including leadership opportunities for women, outreach to migrant workers’ families, environmental stewardship, and efforts to promote dignity and respect across all sections of the campus community.Dr. Anasuya Roychowdhury, Chairperson, Women Welfare Committee coordinated the visit.
The visit also included an interaction with students at the Ganga Hall of Residence, one of the Girls’ Hostels of IIT Bhubaneswar, providing an opportunity for direct dialogue on campus life and awareness of rights.
The visit of the Special Monitor, NHRC, Govt. of India marks an important milestone in IIT Bhubaneswar’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its role as a socially responsible and inclusive institution, committed to promoting human rights, equality, and holistic well-being.
