Sambalpur, Aug 14: In a landmark move, Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla in Odisha's Sambalpur district has introduced a mandatory uniform dress code for first-year students, effective from the academic year 2025–26, officials said on Thursday.

The university has also banned the use of dupattas for female students, citing safety concerns.

According to the official notification issued on August 13, all first-year undergraduate students—excluding postgraduate and PhD scholars—must adhere to the new dress code. Boys are required to wear formal pants and shirts, while girls have the option of either formal pants and shirts or salwar-kameez paired with a waistcoat. The use of dupattas has been explicitly prohibited.

The university stated that the pant and waistcoat must be made from the same fabric, with navy blue designated for pants, salwars, and waistcoats, and sky blue for shirts. Sample uniforms have been displayed on the office notice board to guide students in selecting the correct attire. Compliance with the dress code, including the specified colors, is expected by the end of August.

This marks the first time VSSUT has implemented a uniform policy. Previously, students were free to choose their attire, with no restrictions on clothing. The administration emphasized that the new policy aims to promote a sense of equality, professionalism, and community among students.

University officials also warned that adherence to the dress code will be strictly monitored. Any deviation may result in disciplinary action, reinforcing the seriousness of the directive.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over student safety, and while some students have expressed reservations about the ban on traditional garments like the dupatta, the university maintains that the move is necessary and well-intentioned.

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