As the countdown to the student union elections at Utkal University begins, the Vani Vihar campus in Bhubaneswar has become a hotspot for escalating violence and political unrest.
On Tuesday evening, a violent clash between two rival student groups near the varsity’s central canteen left two students seriously injured, with one, Rajkumar Parida, sustaining severe wounds to his chest and back. Initially admitted to Capital Hospital, Parida was later shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.
The incident has sparked outrage among students, who staged a protest outside the Vice-Chancellor’s office on Wednesday, demanding stricter measures against non-student interference and enhanced campus security. The clash, reportedly fueled by pre-election rivalries, has raised concerns about the deteriorating academic environment as political factions vie for control ahead of the polls.
Although the state government has yet to announce the election date, political activity is already in full swing. Aspiring student leaders from various political outfits, including the student wings of BJD, Congress, and ABVP, have begun campaigning aggressively. The recent suicide of a female student at Balasore’s FM College has become a focal point for BJD and Congress student leaders, who are leveraging the tragedy to rally support.
Meanwhile, ABVP, reeling from the arrest of two of its members in connection with the Balasore incident, is on the defensive but preparing to counter its rivals on key issues.
The presence of non-students on campus has further complicated matters, with reports of external elements instigating violence. Tuesday’s clash, which occurred during a “Rakhi for Soldiers” event, saw two student factions engage in a bloody confrontation, leading to two separate cases being filed at the Saheed Nagar police station.
While police questioned two individuals, no arrests have been made, fueling frustration among students who feel authorities are not doing enough to curb the violence.
With student groups setting up help desks to influence freshers and political campaigns gaining momentum, the campus is witnessing daily skirmishes.
The academic atmosphere is under threat, and if elections proceed without intervention, university authorities may face significant challenges in maintaining order.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on how Utkal University and the state government will address this growing crisis to ensure a safe and fair electoral process.
