Students’ Union Elections likely after Dussehra holidays, says Odisha Higher Education Minister

After several years of uncertainty and student unrest, the long-pending students' union elections in colleges and universities in Odisha may finally see the light of day this year. In a recent statement, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Wednesday hinted that the elections could be conducted soon after the upcoming Dussehra holidays. His remarks have brought fresh hope to thousands of college students across the state who have long awaited the revival of campus democracy.

“The government is seriously considering the resumption of student union elections this year,” said Minister Suraj, while speaking to reporters. 

Also Read: Student ambassador for academic reforms in transforming higher education in India; check UGC guidelines

“We are currently planning to wrap up the admission process for +3 courses at the earliest so that elections can be held without disrupting the academic schedule. The Odisha Chief Minister had earlier expressed a positive outlook regarding the revival of students’ union elections, and the Higher Education Department shares that enthusiasm. 

“We are also interested in bringing back the elections, but in a way that does not impact the academics of the students,” he added.
To ensure a smooth transition, the department is reportedly working on strategies to complete the admission process efficiently and conclude the curriculum before the Dussehra break. This would allow colleges to go ahead with the election process immediately after the holidays. Special care is being taken to ensure that the conduct of elections does not create any hurdles in completing the syllabus. Academic planning and the academic calendar are being aligned accordingly.

What The Decision Means? 

The possible return of students’union elections marks a significant policy shift. Students’ union polls have been on hold in many government and non-government colleges across the state due to concerns over campus violence, political interference, and administrative issues. Over the years, student leaders and various youth organizations have repeatedly demanded the restoration of the democratic process in colleges, citing its importance in developing leadership, responsibility, and civic participation among young citizens.

If implemented, this move could serve as a major step towards nurturing democratic values in higher education institutions and providing students a platform to voice their concerns and represent their peers. The final decision is expected to be announced formally by the Higher Education Department in the coming weeks.

Also Read: Major overhaul in higher education: Odisha Universities (Amendment) Act, 2024 brings sweeping reforms

Reactions Of Youth Leaders

Abhilash Panda, President Odisha BJP Yuva Morcha, said, “The BJP in its manifesto had clearly stated to conduct the students’ union elections in Odisha. The party had exposed the conspiracy previous BJD government’s conspiracy to stall the students’ union election. The students’ union had also supported BJP. During several college events in the past, senior BJD leaders including VK Pandian had to face wrath. After coming to power, the BJP government had assured for holding the students’ union election in the state. Our party does what it says.”

Udit Pradhan, President of Students’ wing of the Congress in Odisha said, “We certainly welcome the decision to hold the students ’union elections which was not being held for past several years by the previous government. The students’ union election is important for students to emerge as leaders. If the elections are held, we will support else we will hit the streets. We are always connected with students and their problems. The BJP has neglected the interest of the students, be it NEP or other issues.