Mysterious Death of Outsider on Utkal University Campus Triggers Security Row

Bhubaneswar: Tensions flared at Utkal University on Monday after a man with no enrolment at the institution was found dead near a hostel, prompting demands for urgent safety measures on the Vani Vihar campus.

The deceased, identified as Biswa, was employed as a driver for a youth leader of the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD). Police suspect he fell from the roof of a hostel building, though the exact cause of death remains under investigation. His blood-stained body was discovered near Boys’ Hostel No. 3 and later sent to Capital Hospital for post-mortem.

Student groups, particularly the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), seized on the incident to highlight long-standing complaints about the presence of non-students in hostels. “We have repeatedly demanded a non-student-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free campus. Yet drug peddling is increasing, and outsiders continue to roam freely,” said ABVP National Executive Member Biswajit Patra.

Patra accused both the Vice-Chancellor and the university administration of negligence, demanding answers on how the deceased gained access to a hostel room. The ABVP warned of intensified protests if the state government fails to act swiftly.

Police have not ruled out foul play, and the incident adds to a growing list of security breaches at the university in recent years.