Non-students to be banned from Utkal University campus: Odisha Minister

In a decisive move to maintain discipline and safety, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Wednesday directed the Vice-Chancellor of Utkal University to impose a strict ban on the entry of non-students into the Vani Vihar campus.

Also Read: Tension erupts at Utkal University hostel; students lock gate in protest against warden

The directive states that no individual unrelated to the university—be it local residents or outsiders—will be permitted inside the premises. The aim is to safeguard the academic environment and prevent any kind of unwanted interference.

Minister Suryabanshi clearly emphasised that action will be taken against anyone disrupting the campus atmosphere, irrespective of their local residency status. “The State government always stands with students and is committed to ensuring their security,” he said.

This strong stance comes in response to rising concerns over unauthorised individuals frequenting the campus, potentially disturbing the peace and academic flow. The university authorities are expected to implement the order with immediate effect, ensuring access is restricted only to students, faculty, staff, and authorised personnel.

“This (unrest) occurred after notice was served and the warden and VC (vice-chancellor) tried to evict the non-students. The Vice–Chancellor has been directed by the government to handle the things as per law, and the provisions of the varsity,” the Minister said.

“Violators of the norms will be punished as per law,” the Minister warned.

“Non-students and other unauthorised persons visiting the campus, whoever they might be and potentially disturbing the academic flow, will not be allowed,” the Minister added.

Worth mentioning, the Vani Vihar campus witnessed student unrest as tension flared up at Gopabandhu Hostel of Utkal University on Tuesday (yesterday).

As per reports, in a strong show of protest against the hostel warden, students locked the gate, preventing entry and exit. The situation within the hostel grew increasingly heated, prompting authorities to deploy police forces at the site to prevent further escalation and maintain order.