Bhubaneswar, May 21: After a seven-year hiatus, the Odisha government has announced plans to resume student union elections in colleges and universities across the state.

The elections, which were halted in 2018 due to concerns over campus violence and the COVID-19 pandemic, will now be conducted as part of the government’s commitment to restoring campus democracy.

Government’s Commitment to Student Elections

Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj confirmed that efforts are being made to complete the academic session for undergraduate and postgraduate courses by July 15, ensuring that the first semester concludes before Dussehra. This will allow student elections to take place without disrupting academic schedules.

Praising the move, Odisha BJP Yuva Morcha President Abhilash Panda said that the previous BJD government had suspended student elections, citing security concerns and administrative challenges. However, the BJP government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, had promised in its 2024 election manifesto to reinstate student elections upon coming to power.

Panda has welcomed the decision, stating that the return of student elections will empower young leaders and enhance campus governance.

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