Bhubaneswar: Student union elections have been cancelled in at least four more colleges in Odisha following escalating tension over alleged irregularities in nomination process and other poll process, threatening campus safety.
Cancellation of campus polls have been reported from colleges across several districts, including Ganjam, Kendrapada, Nabarangpur, Jajpur, Bhadrak and Balaeshwar.
According to information, Laxmibarah Degree College at Ayatpur in Kendrapada district has been declared shut sine die due to a law-and-order situation on campus. A notice issued by the principal stated that the decision was taken due to arising of law and order situation in the college campus. Reports link the closure to tensions surrounding the student union elections, which have also been cancelled.
Banki Autonomous College, also in Kataka district, has cancelled its union elections and declared a sine die following unrest among students over several issues relating to the poll process.
Similarly, the student election 2026-27 scheduled for October 15 has been cancelled at Japkud Women’s Degree College in Salepur area of Kataka district. A notice from the office of the principal cited telephonic instructions from the Regional Director, Regional Directorate of Education, along with a WhatsApp message. The college said the decision follows recent instances of severe code-of-conduct violations, escalating inter-group conflicts, and ongoing controversies surrounding the election process.
All campaign activities—including rallies, canvassing, distribution of materials, and online campaigns—must cease immediately. Unauthorized assemblies, demonstrations, or gatherings on college premises are strictly prohibited.
Local reports indicate the flashpoint was the rejection of nomination papers of ABVP-backed candidates for the posts of president and vice-president. Protesting students staged a sit-in, after which the principal cancelled the election.
The student union election at Kesinga College in Kalahandi district was cancelled after prolonged disputes among student groups. The nomination of a BJD-supported candidate was initially rejected on the basis of a police case and subsequent report. Following protests by BJD leaders, including Narla MLA and supporters, and a direction from the State Higher Education Department, the nomination was restored.
This triggered counter-protests by BJP workers who blocked roads. Citing the deteriorating law-and-order situation, the college authorities submitted a report to the College Management Committee and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate. After the SDM’s review, the election was cancelled.