Campus Polls / BJP Welcomes Odisha Govt's Decision to Restore Student Union Elections After Eight Years

Bhubaneswar, Oct 5: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday welcomed the Odisha government's decision to restore student union elections in universities and colleges across the State after an eight-year hiatus, describing the move as a historic step towards reviving democratic participation and leadership development among students.

The party expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, and other members of the State Cabinet for facilitating the return of campus elections.

The announcement comes after the Higher Education Department issued a formal notification paving the way for student union polls in higher educational institutions across Odisha.

Boost for Student Leadership

Addressing the media, BJP State General Secretary Biranchi Narayan Tripathy said the prolonged suspension of student union elections had adversely affected leadership development on campuses.

According to him, the resumption of elections will provide students with an opportunity to participate in democratic processes, develop leadership skills, and contribute constructively to campus governance.

Tripathy said student union elections play a crucial role in nurturing future leaders and fostering democratic values among young people. He added that the electoral process would help create a healthy academic environment where education and student leadership can progress simultaneously.

'Democratic Rights Restored'

Describing the move as the restoration of students' democratic rights, the BJP leader said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had fulfilled his promise to bring back student union elections in the State.

The BJP leader alleged that the previous BJD government had deprived students of their democratic rights by discontinuing the electoral process. Following the government's decision, opposition parties were attempting to justify the earlier suspension through what he termed as "misleading explanations", he claimed.

Tripathy further said the return of elections marks the re-establishment of democratic participation in Odisha's educational institutions and reflects the government's commitment to empowering students.

Polls to Follow Lyngdoh Norms

The BJP leader maintained that the elections would be conducted in a peaceful and disciplined manner in accordance with the recommendations of the Lyngdoh Committee and directions issued by the Supreme Court.

He expressed confidence that adherence to these guidelines would help preserve the academic atmosphere on campuses while ensuring free, fair, and constructive student participation in the electoral process.
Also Read: Odisha Student Union Elections To Be Held On October 15, Minister Confirms

Polls Return to Campuses

The student union elections are scheduled to be held on October 15 in all degree colleges and universities including government and aided institutions across the state.

The decision has generated considerable enthusiasm among students and youth across the State, with many viewing the return of campus elections as an opportunity to strengthen student representation and democratic engagement within educational institutions.