Odisha Student Union Elections: 6,891 Candidates Set to Compete Amid Controversies

The Odisha student union elections are approaching, with 6,891 candidates set to compete amid significant controversies. As nomination disputes and protests unfold across various colleges, the electoral process faces scrutiny. With the last elections held in 2017, this year's polls are crucial for student representation. Discover the details of the candidates, the political implications, and what to expect on election day.

By Ambika Singh Oct 12, 2026, 23:07 IST

Overview of the Upcoming Elections

In Bhubaneswar, the Odisha student union elections are set for October 15, with 6,891 candidates vying for positions, as reported by the Higher Education Department on October 12 at 7:30 PM. However, the electoral process is marred by disputes over nominations, protests, and cancellations at various colleges.

Out of 8,785 candidates who submitted nominations across 359 higher education institutions, 1,216 were rejected during the scrutiny phase, and 443 candidates withdrew, leaving 6,891 candidates eligible to compete. This total comprises 6,533 candidates from 346 colleges and 358 from 13 universities.

The department's data indicates that colleges received 8,334 nominations, with 1,161 being rejected. After scrutiny, 7,173 nominations were validated. Following the withdrawal of 405 candidates, 6,533 remain in contention at colleges. In universities, 451 nominations were submitted, with 55 rejected, resulting in 396 valid nominations. After 38 withdrawals, 358 candidates are left to compete.

The election process has faced protests regarding the rejection of nominations and the cancellation of polls at several institutions. In Sambalpur, students at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose College protested after the final candidate list was released, claiming unfair rejections. The college administration defended the scrutiny process as per established criteria. Similarly, protests occurred at Nimapara Autonomous College in Puri district over numerous rejected nominations.

Students have raised concerns about the application of attendance requirements, while college authorities cited eligibility and procedural issues. Ravenshaw University in Cuttack also saw protests over the rejection of an Independent candidate's nomination for the president's position, with similar allegations reported at Shailabala Women’s Autonomous College and Christ College in Cuttack.

These developments have sparked worries about the potential for peaceful and consistent elections across all participating institutions. The situation has taken a political turn, with the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to sway student elections.

The BJD has raised concerns regarding an alleged audio recording involving staff from Rama Devi Women’s University, demanding an investigation into claims of access to confidential student records and possible election influence. The BJP has dismissed these allegations, questioning the recording's authenticity and accusing the BJD of politicizing the matter. The claims surrounding the recording remain unverified.

In the meantime, student organizations such as the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD), and National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) have ramped up their campaigns, focusing on hostel facilities, campus security, infrastructure, and student welfare in their pledges.

These elections mark a return after the last student union polls held in 2017, which were suspended due to concerns over campus violence and disruptions to academic activities. Polling is scheduled from 8 AM to 2 PM on October 15, with candidate meetings planned for October 14, and newly elected representatives expected to take their oaths on October 16.