Following the official notification announcing the return of student union elections in Odisha after a prolonged gap, the State Chhatra Congress has welcomed the decision while raising serious concerns over the election timeline and government impartiality.
Addressing the media, Chhatra Congress State President Bibhuti Bhushan Mahapatra stated that campus elections are vital for fostering democratic rights, leadership skills, and student advocacy. However, he accused the government of plotting a strategy to disadvantage student outfits by allocating minimal time for preparation.
“We accept this short timeline as a challenge and will not let any conspiracy succeed. Chhatra Congress will contest strongly across all colleges,” Mahapatra asserted, calling upon youth leaders to stand up for student rights, campus safety, and educational reforms.
To streamline candidate selection, the organization has launched a QR code (“barcode”) campaign on social media. Interested students can scan the code to connect with Chhatra Congress, which promises full organizational and electoral backing.
Adding to the criticism, former Ravenshaw University Student Union President Harishankar Rout noted that student elections had been halted under the previous BJD regime due to political insecurity among leaders. Meanwhile, Chhatra Congress alleged that the current administration and Higher Education Minister are attempting to influence the polls in favor of ABVP-backed candidates.
Demanding an unhindered, transparent, and democratic election process, Chhatra Congress urged the state administration to ensure a level playing field for all student bodies without political interference.
