Bhubaneswar, October 6: College and university campuses across Odisha are witnessing a renewed buzz as student union elections are set to return on October 15, nearly eight years after the last round of campus polls.

With the election date drawing closer, college authorities, student organisations and the police are stepping up preparations to ensure that the elections are conducted peacefully and without disruption to academic activities.

​​​​​​​The return of student elections has already triggered increased political activity on campuses. Student organisations are reaching out to voters, holding meetings and intensifying their campaigns to mobilise support ahead of the polls.

The elections have also attracted the attention of mainstream political parties, with the BJD, BJP, Congress and Left parties to take an active interest in the campus contest. Their respective student wings have stepped up activities and are seeking to consolidate support among students.

The polls are expected to bring several student-centric issues to the forefront. Candidates and student organisations are likely to focus their campaigns on concerns such as campus infrastructure, academic facilities, examination-related problems, hostel accommodation, transportation, scholarships, placements and other welfare measures.

For a generation of students that has not witnessed regular campus elections, the return of student politics is being seen as an important opportunity to participate directly in the democratic process and elect representatives to voice their concerns.

At the same time, the state administration is taking steps to prevent the elections from affecting campus peace and academic activities. The Odisha Police has directed its field-level officers to remain alert and take preventive measures to deal with any situation that could disturb law and order.

Odisha DGP Vinaytosh Mishraon Tuesday directed Superintendents of Police, Range IGs/DIGs and other senior police officers to make necessary arrangements for the peaceful and orderly conduct of student elections across colleges and universities in the state.

College and university authorities are also finalising arrangements for polling, counting and other election-related activities. Students and candidates are being briefed about election guidelines and the need to maintain discipline and adhere to the prescribed rules.

However, authorities face the challenge of ensuring that political competition does not lead to clashes, intimidation or disruption of regular academic activities. Students and candidates have been advised to respect the election code of conduct and avoid any activity that could create tension on campuses.

With October 15 fast approaching, political activity is steadily picking up across college and university campuses in Odisha. The administration, educational institutions and police are now focused on ensuring that the long-awaited student elections are conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner.