Why Are Student Union Elections in Odisha Facing Cancellation? Protests Erupt!

In Odisha, the cancellation of student union elections across multiple colleges has led to widespread protests and unrest. Authorities cite law-and-order concerns, while students claim unfair treatment. The situation has escalated, resulting in indefinite closures at several institutions. Discover the details behind these developments and the reactions from students and organizations demanding a fair electoral process.

By Ambika Singh Oct 12, 2026, 17:50 IST

Student Union Elections Cancelled Amid Protests

Bhubaneswar: Due to concerns regarding 'law and order' and potential 'campus disturbances', numerous colleges in Odisha have cancelled their student union elections. This decision has sparked protests and unrest on various campuses, leading to indefinite closures at some institutions.

Students and various organizations have voiced their opposition to these cancellations, claiming that candidates are being treated unfairly.

In Nayagada district, elections were called off at Prajamandal Women’s College and Model Degree College in Lathipada, with the district administration citing the risk of a 'law-and-order situation'. This move faced strong backlash from the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD).

In Nabarangpur district, Model Degree College was shut down indefinitely following protests and political unrest triggered by the election cancellations. An official statement indicated that the elections were cancelled due to the unavailability of eligible candidates, prompting the college to prioritize the 'safety of students, staff, and property'.

Additionally, a dispute over elections at Umerkote College reportedly resulted in a clash between two groups of non-students, leaving two individuals critically injured, one of whom was stabbed and required transfer to Visakhapatnam for medical treatment.

In Bhadrak district, elections at Bhadrak Women’s College and Naami College in Bhandaripokhari were cancelled after the nomination process had commenced. The principals cited 'safety concerns and the necessity to maintain discipline on campus'. Students at Bhadrak Women’s College protested the decision, claiming they had not received official notification regarding the cancellations.

Khariar Autonomous College in Nuapada district also called off its student union elections and closed indefinitely due to rising tensions on campus. A notice issued on October 11 informed students and candidates that the elections scheduled for October 15 for the 2026-27 academic year were cancelled.

In Puri district, Gop College cancelled its elections following reports of 'disorder and tension on campus'. The principal announced an indefinite closure after receiving directives from the Puri Sub-Collector. Students reportedly locked the main gate and protested against the principal.

Debagada Degree College was also closed indefinitely after 'tension developed' following the rejection of a presidential candidate's nomination. In Kendrapada district, UK Mahavir College in Pattamundai cancelled its elections and closed indefinitely due to disturbances.

Protests were also reported at a college in Aska, Ganjam district, after the cancellation of its student union elections, leading to an indefinite closure. Students are demanding that the elections be rescheduled.

These events have raised significant concerns regarding the management of student union elections throughout the state, with many institutions taking precautionary measures amid disputes over nominations, candidate eligibility, and campus security. The colleges mentioned are not an exhaustive list, and this report is based on the most recent information available.