Bhubaneswar, 22 February (H.S.): The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has demanded that Odisha’s oldest women’s college, Shailabala Autonomous Women’s College, be granted university status.

In a statement, ABVP Odisha (East) Prant Secy Deeptimayi Pratihari said that despite its long history and contribution to women’s education, Shailabala Women’s College has yet to receive university recognition. Since 2017, ABVP has been campaigning for the government to announce university status for the institution and support its infrastructure and campus development initiatives.

Located in Cuttack, the college was established in the name of Madhusudan Das’s daughter, a renowned figure in Odisha’s history. Over the years, the institution has made significant contributions to women’s education and empowerment. ABVP began its movement in 2017 and, in 2019, met the then-Governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal to advocate for the college’s elevation to university status.

Pratihari emphasized that granting university status to Shailabala Women’s College is crucial. “It will not only provide the institution with a distinct identity but also facilitate the appointment of teachers and non-academic staff and promote the holistic development of its campus,” she said.

ABVP also expressed concern that parts of the college land are being acquired under the guise of beautification, and promised replacement land has not yet been provided.

Although the 2026 state budget proposed the establishment of four new universities, ABVP insists that recognition of Shailabala Women’s College—a historic institution offering quality education—remains a priority.

Pratihari added that special attention must be given to the college’s development to provide it with an independent identity. “If the government fails to take appropriate steps in this direction, ABVP is prepared to continue its movement through public demonstrations and other means,” she said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda