Odisha college lands to be freed from encroachers: Minister

Bhubaneswar: Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Friday announced that the government will free all college lands from encroachment. He informed the Odisha Assembly that district collectors have already received instructions to take necessary action.

The Minister highlighted the situation at Bhadrak Women’s College, where anti‑social elements had earlier created serious disturbances. He stated that after the BJP government came to power, authorities curbed such activities and restored order.

Suraj further noted that several colleges across Odisha, including Bhadrak, remain under encroachment. The government has now directed district administrations to ensure that these lands are vacated and returned to the institutions.

Officials emphasised that the move aims to protect educational infrastructure and provide a safe environment for students. By removing illegal occupation, the government seeks to strengthen higher education facilities and safeguard public property.