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Resumption of Student Elections in Odisha

MANOJ KUMAR JENA, OP

Bhubaneswar: The state government’s announcement to reinstate student elections in colleges and universities after a seven-year hiatus has been met with enthusiasm from students and various organizations. Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj confirmed on Wednesday that preparations are underway to finalize the schedule and procedures for the elections, following the Chief Minister's approval. Suraj stated, “We are planning to hold students’ union elections this year. We aim to complete the syllabus before Durga Puja to ensure that academic activities remain uninterrupted.”

Students have expressed their support for this initiative. Smita Mishra, a BBA student at Ravenshaw University, remarked that these elections are crucial for addressing numerous campus issues and fostering future leaders. Similarly, Tejeshwar Behera, a Post Graduate History student at Vani Vihar, welcomed the decision but urged the government to ensure a violence-free election process to protect their studies.

While many student organizations have welcomed the government's plans, some remain skeptical. Biswapratap Sahoo, working president of Biju Chatra Janata Dal (BCJD), criticized the BJP for its inconsistency, stating, “They often reverse their decisions.” Nonetheless, he affirmed that BCJD is prepared for the elections, asserting, “We will achieve a significant victory if the elections are conducted fairly.”

Udit Pradhan, state president of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), expressed support for the government's initiative, highlighting that students' voices have been suppressed for the past seven years. He emphasized the need for political education among the current generation to cultivate future leaders. However, he warned of protests if the government fails to follow through with the elections, citing a tendency for U-turns in policy. “We will mobilize massive protests if the elections do not occur this year,” he stated.

Biswajeet Patra, a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) National Executive Council, noted that their long-standing demand for student elections is finally being addressed. He criticized the previous government for canceling elections to hinder the emergence of youth leaders for political gain, asserting that this trend will now change, shaping the future of student leadership in the state.