Student Politics / Odisha Campuses Heat Up Ahead of Student Polls

Bhubaneswar, Oct 11: With nominations closed and final candidate lists released, Odisha’s college campuses are bracing for intense campaigning ahead of the upcoming Students’ Union elections scheduled for October 15.

According to the Higher Education Department, the electoral picture is now clear after scrutiny and withdrawals. Across 347 colleges, a total of 6,362 candidates remain in the fray.

Initially, 8,370 nominations were filed, of which 1,196 were rejected. Another 405 candidates withdrew their papers, leaving the final tally at just over six thousand.

Also read: Odisha DGP Reviews Security Ahead Of October 15 Student Union Elections

In universities, the contest is equally charged. Thirteen universities are participating, with 429 nominations filed. After 49 rejections and 34 withdrawals, 287 candidates are set to contest.

The atmosphere in campuses has already begun to heat up, with campaigning expected to intensify from today as student leaders and their supporters seek to win over voters.

Meanwhile, the state police headquarters has tightened security arrangements to ensure peaceful conduct of the elections.

Director General of Police Binaytosh Mishra chaired a high‑level video conference with all district SPs and range IGs/DIGs, directing them to adopt preventive measures rather than reactive steps. Mishra stressed that police must act in advance to curb tensions and avoid violence during and after polling.

Special focus will be placed on sensitive campuses, with instructions to maintain regular communication with college authorities and deploy forces as required.

Senior officers including Intelligence Director RP Koche, ADG Rajesh Kumar, and Additional Police Commissioner Narasingha Bhol attended the review meeting.

Authorities have emphasized that maintaining law and order is paramount, with police prepared to intervene swiftly should any untoward incidents arise.