Bhubaneswar: Pre-poll unrest and alleged threats have disrupted student union elections across multiple colleges in Odisha, leading to cancellations, postponements, and indefinite closures on Saturday.
At Jambeshwar College under Simulia police station in Balasore district, the student union elections were cancelled. A commotion broke out on the campus at night after the filing of nominations. It is alleged that the college principal received death threats, including a warning that he would be killed by being crushed under a vehicle. After the matter was reported to the authorities, the sub-collector ordered the cancellation of the elections.
In Nabarangpur, Government Model College issued an official notification declaring the institution closed sine die (indefinitely) with immediate effect. The decision followed the cancellation of the Students’ Union Election 2026-27 due to the non-availability of eligible candidates, which triggered political unrest, agitations and potential law-and-order issues on campus. The college cited the need to ensure the safety and security of students, staff and institutional property.
All hostel boarders were directed to vacate the premises within four hours of the notice (by 5 pm on October 10, 2026). Entry to the campus and hostels has been restricted without written permission. Physical classes, examinations and co-curricular activities stand suspended until further orders. Students have been advised to maintain peace and leave the campus peacefully.
At Gop College in Puri district, the Students’ Union Election 2026-27, scheduled for October 15, has been postponed sine die with immediate effect. The order was issued on the direction of the Sub-Collector, Puri-cum-President of the Governing Body, citing the prevailing law-and-order situation inside the college premises. Students have been strictly instructed not to hold any meetings, processions, rallies or gatherings related to the election. The college will remain closed until further orders, and any violation will invite disciplinary and legal action.
Similarly, Debagada College has also declared closure sine die due to an unavoidable situation on campus. Students residing in the hostel have been asked to vacate by 8 am on Sunday morning.
Authorities have urged students and staff to maintain peace and cooperate with the directives amid the disruptions.
