OUAT PG and PhD students’ hunger strike enters second day

The indefinite hunger strike launched by postgraduate and PhD students of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) over their demand for a stipend entered its second day on Tuesday. The protest is being held in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s office, drawing attention to the long-standing demand of the research scholars.

The agitating students argued that while the government provides stipends to postgraduate and research scholars in agricultural universities of other states, similar support is not being extended in Odisha. They questioned why students pursuing higher studies and research in the state are being denied the same benefits.

Student's anger over stipend demand

"We have been protesting for the past two days with one clear demand, a stipend. Although a bill has been passed to provide stipends, the government has not given us any assurance so far, neither verbally nor in writing. We come from different backgrounds, not all from affluent families. We are here to study, and we are managing our expenses on our own. At this stage of life, it is not possible to depend on our parents for financial support. We urge the government to provide us with incentives or a stipend,” said a student.

“For the last five months, we have approached several authorities and departments demanding a stipend, but we are now losing hope. As no concrete assurance has been given by the Odisha government, we have been left with no option but to protest for our rightful demand,” said another student.

Talks Ongoing, But No Resolution

Students claimed that discussions with the government have been ongoing for the past four months. However, they alleged that their concerns are not being taken seriously despite repeated assurances. The lack of concrete action has forced them to intensify their agitation.

Protest to Continue Till Demands Are Met

The protesting students made it clear that they will not withdraw their agitation until their demands are fulfilled. They reiterated their resolve to continue the hunger strike until a firm decision is taken on providing stipends for postgraduate and PhD research work.

No response was received from the concerned authorities in this regard.