Odisha CM clears student union polls after eight‑year pause

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved the holding of student union elections across Odisha’s higher‑education institutions, ending an eight‑year suspension that began in 2017. The government announced on Oct 5, 2026 that the entire election process will be completed within ten days. Colleges will receive official notifications on Oct 7, nominations are to be filed on Oct 9, voting is scheduled for Oct 15 and the oath‑taking ceremony will take place on the morning of Oct 16, just before the Dussehra holidays. State Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj said the move fulfills a promise made in the party’s election manifesto and follows a year of addressing campus issues after the party formed the government in 2024. He emphasized that the elections will teach students democratic responsibilities, constitutional values and prepare them for future leadership roles. Security arrangements will be robust, with authorities citing the Supreme Court’s 2005 verdict and the J M Lyngdoh Committee recommendations as guiding frameworks. Colleges may adjust procedures if the environment is not conducive or student strength is low, using earlier‑adopted methods. The minister argued that a short, ten‑day timeline should limit law‑and‑order problems and keep campus violence to a minimum, and he urged all political parties to act responsibly to ensure a smooth poll.

Context

Student union elections in Indian states are often paused due to concerns over campus clashes. The Supreme Court guidelines and Lyngdoh Committee recommendations set standards for fair and peaceful student polls. Holding the vote before the Dussehra break aims to avoid prolonged disruptions during the holiday period.