Voting for the students' union elections in Odisha's state-run colleges and universities began on Thursday under tight security. The polling started at 8 am and will continue until 2 pm, with vote counting and result announcements scheduled later the same day.
- Polling is taking place in 346 colleges and 13 universities across Odisha.
- A total of 6,891 candidates are contesting various posts in the elections.
- The elections are being held after an eight-year gap, previously postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other reasons.
- Security personnel are deployed at campuses and polling booths to maintain order.
- Some student groups have raised concerns about election campaign practices, such as distribution of religious offerings.
How many candidates are participating in the elections?
According to the Higher Education Department data, 6,891 candidates are contesting in the elections. Of these, more than 6,530 candidates are running for various posts in the students' unions of 346 colleges. Additionally, 358 candidates are competing for positions in the students' councils of 13 universities.
Why are the elections significant this year?
The students' union elections are being held after an eight-year gap. Previous elections were cancelled due to multiple reasons, including the COVID-19 pandemic. This resumption marks an important step in reviving student representation and campus democracy in Odisha's higher education institutions.
What security measures are in place during the elections?
Police personnel have been deployed at the institutes and polling booths to ensure a smooth and peaceful voting process. At Utkal University and other campuses, security officers checked student identity cards before allowing entry to polling areas.
Have there been any controversies during the elections?
At RD Women's University, supporters of the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) distributed red roses and 'mahaprasad' (religious offerings) of Lord Jagannath to students entering the campus. Some other student unions objected to this practice, stating that distributing 'mahaprasad' before voting is inappropriate. BCJD president Ipsita Sahoo defended the practice, saying it encourages students to vote according to their conscience.
What has been the voter turnout and election progress so far?
Students were seen gathering on campuses such as Utkal University and RD Women's University to cast their votes. Many expressed hope that their chosen candidates would win. Official data shows that 1,597 college representatives have been elected unopposed, along with 42 university representatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did the students' union elections start in Odisha?
A: The elections began on Thursday, with polling from 8 am to 2 pm.
Q: How many colleges and universities are participating?
A: Elections are held in 346 colleges and 13 universities across Odisha.
Q: Why were the elections not held in recent years?
A: The elections were cancelled previously due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other reasons.
Q: What security arrangements are in place?
A: Police personnel are deployed at campuses and polling booths to maintain order and verify voter identities.
Q: Were there any objections raised during the elections?
A: Yes, some student groups objected to the distribution of religious offerings by a political student group during voting.
