Bhubaneswar: Student union elections were cancelled in at least four more colleges in Odisha and the institutions closed indefinitely following tension and disturbances in the run up to the polls.
Sources said the authorities of Khariar (Autonomous) College in Nuapada district have cancelled the student union election and closed the institution sine die in view of the prevailing tension on the campus.
In an official notice issued on October 11, the principal-in-charge of the college informed students and contesting candidates about the cancellation of the election for the academic session 2026–27 scheduled to be held across the state on October 15.
The notice further stated that the college has been closed sine die until further orders. All boarders of the boys’ and girls’ hostels have been directed to vacate their respective hostels by 5 pm on October 11.
The college administration has advised the students concerned to comply with the directions issued by the authorities. Further decisions regarding the reopening of the institution and the resumption of academic activities are awaited.
Meanwhile, a report from Puri said that the student election was cancelled in Gop College in the district following reports of disorder and tension on campus. The principal announced closure of the college sine die after an order from the Puri Sub-Collector. Students reportedly locked the main gate and raised slogans against the principal.
Similarly, Deogarh Degree College was also closed indefinitely after tension followed the rejection of a presidential candidate’s nomination.
According to information from Kendrapada, the student union election at UK Mahavir College in Pattamundai was also cancelled and the institution closed sine die following disturbances.