Bhubaneswar, 23 September (H.S.): The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has demanded that the Odisha government announce a definite date for student union elections in higher educational institutions across the state. The organisation warned that it would take to the streets if the government fails to take a clear decision soon.

ABVP Odisha (East) State Secretary Diptimayee Pratihari said that the complete suspension of student union elections in the state’s higher educational institutions for nearly eight years was unfortunate and concerning. She said campuses are considered the “nurseries of democracy” and argued that the absence of elections has affected opportunities for leadership development and democratic participation among students.

Pratihari said the student community was hopeful about the restoration of student union elections, but the state government should not confine itself to assurances or statements that the matter was being considered positively. She demanded that the government clearly state when the elections would be held and announce a specific date.

She warned that if the government failed to take a clear decision soon, the ABVP would be compelled to launch a street protest. She said the organisation would intensify its protest in the coming days against what it described as the government’s “anti-student policy.”

The ABVP said its campaign for the restoration of democratic processes on college and university campuses would continue.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda