Bhubaneswar, Sept 2: A tense situation erupted at Utkal University’s Gopabandhu Hostel in Vani Vihar here on Tuesday evening after a group of students allegedly locked the hostel gate in protest against the warden’s directive to evict unauthorized occupants.

The protest escalated quickly, prompting police deployment to maintain order on campus, sources said.

According to sources, the hostel warden had issued notices instructing non-students and unauthorized residents to vacate hostel rooms immediately. The directive was part of a crackdown aimed at reallocating rooms to registered students for the upcoming academic session. However, the move sparked outrage among some students and former residents, leading to heated exchanges during the warden’s visit to the hostel.

In a dramatic turn, the protesting group locked the hostel gate, temporarily confining the warden inside. Though the warden was later released, the gate remained locked, and tension continued to simmer. Police forces were deployed to prevent any untoward incidents and restore normalcy.

The university administration had earlier issued a notice warning that failure to vacate hostel rooms by September 4 would result in disciplinary action, including cancellation of studentship. The crackdown follows growing concerns over unauthorized occupancy and alleged anti-social activities within hostel premises.

Students have expressed mixed reactions. While some support the administration’s move to ensure fair allocation of hostel facilities, others argue that alumni preparing for competitive exams should be given temporary accommodation. The issue has sparked broader debates about hostel management, student welfare, and campus security.

Authorities are expected to hold further discussions with student representatives and hostel committees to resolve the matter amicably.