Operation Blue Star: Eviction drive begins at Utkal University official quarters in Bhubaneswar

After eviction of illegal occupants from Utkal University hostels, authorities have now launched a similar drive to make government quarters free from encroachment at Vani Vihar campus in Bhubaneswar under Operation Blue Star on Thursday.

Tension ran high on the campus as eviction teams, supported by a large contingent of security personnel, began clearing the quarters. Notices were earlier served to occupants, asking them to vacate within the stipulated time.

According to the Vice Chancellor of the university, at least 50 government quarters are illegally occupied by unauthorized persons.

 
Officials said the deployment of additional forces was necessary to maintain law and order during the operation. The crackdown comes after repeated complaints about outsiders and former staff continuing to occupy university quarters without authorization.

“I am a cook at the hostel and I get Rs 7000-8000 salary. Where can I rent a room with this salary? The quarters was vacant when I shifted here. I have been living here for the last 4-5 years,” said an occupant.

“I am clueless about where to go with my family. I have not arranged any house,” said the mother of the occupant.

Authorities confirmed that the vacated quarters will be repurposed for genuine staff and academic requirements. The eviction drive at Utkal University is being carried out in phases, beginning with the hostels last week and now extending to the staff quarters. Strict action will be taken against those refusing to comply with the notices.

Also Read: ‘Operation Blue Star’ continues at Utkal University to evict non-students

“We have a list of unauthorized occupants. The quarters that have been rented out will be identified today. We will seek the government’s permission to demolish the quarters which are not in a state for staying in,” said Mitali Chinara, Chairperson of the PG Council of the University.