Students’ union elections may not be held in Odisha this year: Sources

After several years of uncertainty and student unrest, there was hope that the long-pending students' union elections in colleges and universities in Odisha may finally see the light of day this year. However, sources claim that the elections may not be held this year.

Earlier, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj had hinted that the elections could be conducted after the Dussehra holidays. His remarks had ignited hope of students as they were awaiting the revival of campus democracy.

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

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

What Sources Claim:

On the condition of anonymity, an official of the state secretariat said that the students' union elections may not be held this year as the 'ground report is not in favour of the ruling party'. 

He further claimed that any setback in the students' union elections could have direct impact on the upcoming panchayat elections. "So, the government is not considering holding the election for now even though it wants to ensure campus democracy," he said.

On the other hand, students have also expressed concerns over the matter. "The election process usually starts before the Dussehra. I don't think the students'union election will be held this year," said a student.

Why Students’ Union Elections Are On Hold:

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 organisations 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 the elections are conducted this year, the 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. 

Meanwhile, a section of students still hope that the Higher Education Department may soon come up with a notification related to the union elections, proving all the claims wrong.

The concerned department could not be contacted to comment over the claims. This piece will be updated once we get some confirmation from the said department.