After a significant gap of six years, students’ union elections in colleges and universities across Odisha are set to take place in the upcoming academic year. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Mohan Majhi during an event organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) on Thursday.

The Chief Minister’s revelation comes as a relief to students, as no elections have been conducted since 2018. The previous government, led by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), had suspended student body elections citing various reasons, including the impacts of cyclones, the COVID-19 pandemic, and campus unrest that had plagued educational institutions in the state.

During his address, Chief Minister Majhi criticized the former BJD government for its failure to facilitate the democratic process within educational institutions, emphasizing the importance of student unions in fostering leadership and participation among youth.

The decision to resume elections has garnered mixed reactions, with many students expressing optimism about reinstating democratic processes within their campuses. Student leaders from various organizations have also welcomed the move, noting the significance of student unions in voicing concerns and fostering a sense of community among the youth.

As preparations begin for the elections, universities and colleges are expected to outline the necessary protocols to ensure a smooth electoral process, including guidelines for nominations and campaigning. The Chief Minister’s announcement marks a pivotal moment for students in Odisha, reinstating a vital platform for student representation and advocacy.

As the academic year progresses, students and faculty alike await further details on the election timeline and the measures that will be put in place to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.