Will Odisha student union elections return this year?

Odisha’s student union elections, halted since 2017, face renewed uncertainty despite earlier government assurances. With Dussehra approaching—the traditional time for polls—no groundwork is visible. Political parties, including BJD and Congress, have criticised the BJP-led government for delaying democratic processes. While the Higher Education Minister claims a positive outlook.

Will Odisha student union elections return this year?

File photo of student union elections in Odisha

time

With Dussehra round the corner, uncertainty looms over whether the long-awaited Student Union elections will finally be held this year. Since 2017, student elections have not taken place in the colleges and universities of Odisha, and despite growing demand and political pressure, there is still no official announcement.

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

The State government had earlier hinted at holding the student union elections this year, fueling hopes across campuses. However, as the days pass, there is no visible ground-level preparation, creating confusion among students.

Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has criticised the State government for the continued delay, questioning the intent behind stalling democratic student representation in the educational institutions.

“They (BJP) were shouting that they will hold the student union elections after they assume power. After the formation of the (BJP-led) government, they again declared to hold elections this year. Subsequently, their Law Minister negated the plan and the polls were halted,” Odisha Congress youth wing leader Yashir Nawaj alleged.

“Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had committed to holding student union elections after assuming office. However, there is nothing to be astonished about the BJP going back on their own words. The party has expertise in committing and then taking a U-turn,” BJD’s Ipsita Sahoo stated.

Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj broke the silence on Monday, stating that the State government remains positive about the student elections. He reiterated that the intent to hold elections had been expressed earlier, too. His statement has reignited debates and hopes across student communities.

With just weeks to go before Dussehra, the usual time for conducting student elections, the lack of any formal groundwork raises doubts about whether the polls will actually happen this year or not.

“The State government has already made its stance clear regarding college union elections. We still possess a positive mindset towards this. The State government will take a call in this regard at an appropriate time, taking into account the previous views of people from all sections of society,” the Higher Education Minister said to OTV.

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