Bhubaneswar, Oct 14: Tension gripped the Utkal University campus at Vani Vihar after a meeting titled “Why I Stand for Meeting” reportedly turned violent, with rival student groups allegedly clashing, chairs being hurled, and several people sustaining injuries.

According to reports, the incident took place amid heightened political activity ahead of the upcoming student union elections. Candidates have been intensifying their campaigns across the campus, with various student groups organising meetings and outreach programmes to garner support.

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The situation reportedly escalated during a meeting at the university campus when candidates affiliated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) came face-to-face, triggering tension between the rival groups.

The confrontation soon turned violent, with chairs allegedly being thrown and property damaged at the venue. The clash also resulted in a reported bloodied scene, raising concerns over campus security ahead of the student elections.

Police personnel rushed to the spot and began efforts to pacify the agitated students and bring the situation under control. Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) also arrived at the campus to assess the situation and intervene.

The incident has heightened tensions at Vani Vihar at a time when student political activities are gathering momentum ahead of the elections.

Further details regarding the number of injured students and the circumstances that triggered the clash are awaited.