Bhubaneswar, October 15: Student union elections are underway across Odisha on Thursday, marking the return of campus polls after an eight-year gap. Students are voting to elect their representatives at colleges and universities across the state, while the administration has made arrangements for the polling process.
The elections are being held on October 15 following the state government’s decision to resume student union polls for the 2026–27 academic session. The last statewide student union elections were held in 2017, with subsequent polls suspended. The return of campus elections has renewed student participation in college-level democratic activities. <Cite refs={[“turn807837search4″,”turn807837search11”]}/>
Ravenshaw University Sees Student Participation
At Ravenshaw University in Cuttack, polling is taking place amid strict checking as students arrive to cast their votes. According to the information provided, around 3,200 students are expected to vote across 19 polling booths at the university.
Polling is scheduled from 8 AM to 2 PM. The university administration has made the necessary arrangements to facilitate voting and manage student movement on campus. Students have shown enthusiasm about participating in the elections after the prolonged break.
The university has also issued polling-day guidelines concerning campus entry and identification, including restrictions on the entry of outsiders. <Cite refs={[“turn807837search0”]}/>
CM Mohan Charan Majhi Appeals for Peaceful Polling
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has urged students to participate in the elections peacefully and maintain discipline throughout the process.
In a social media message, Majhi described student union elections as more than a means of choosing representatives. He highlighted their role in strengthening democratic values and providing a platform for developing future leaders.
The Chief Minister also asked students to stay away from violence, rumours and divisive activities. He emphasised that the values, discipline and ideals students practise on campus can help shape the future of Odisha and the country. <Cite refs={[“turn807837search5″,”turn807837search14”]}/>
Campus Democracy Returns to Odisha
The resumption of student union elections marks a significant development for higher education institutions across Odisha. Campus polls provide students with an opportunity to choose representatives who can raise student concerns and participate in institutional affairs.
As voting continues, peaceful participation and adherence to election rules remain important to the conduct of the polls. The Odisha student union elections are being closely watched as campus-level democratic activities return after years without regular statewide student elections.
