Unrest at Utkal University as students gherao authorities over hostel issues

Scores of students on Monday staged a demonstration at Utkal University at Vani Vihar over several issues related to hostels. The PG first and second year students staged a demonstration in front of PG Council Office alleging delay in allotment of hostels to the new students since last night.

Soumya, a PG first year student said, “Our classes have started from August 21 but hostel has not been allotted to us. We had informed this to the authorities. But no step was taken. Therefore, over 200 students including first year and second year students met the PG Council Chairman and Superintendent today and they have assured that the first year students will be allotted hostel rooms in next two to three days. The authorities have also assured us that soon some arrangements will be made to ensure that second year students get single rooms.”

The agitating students said they will discuss other issues like drinking water and other facilities at hostels with the concerned superintendent.

“We feel that it is completely administrative issue as a lot of students from far-off places come to the university only to wait outside with their luggage. Some hostels are closed due to lack of renovation work. In small rooms, the students are adjusting,” Soumya added.

Gyana Prakash Nayak, a PG second year student said, “Utkal University is one of the premier educational institutes in the state. In my first year, I had struggled a lot to get proper accommodation. The same thing is happening with the first year students now as 5 to 6 students are adjusting in single rooms. Such things are hampering our studies.”