Odisha colleges told to adopt zero-tolerance approach to violence during student polls

Bhubaneswar: With student union elections approaching, the Odisha Higher Education Department has asked educational institutions across the state to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards violence and ensure that polling takes place in a peaceful and orderly manner.

Higher Education Commissioner-cum-Secretary Arvind Agrawal issued the directive on Monday while reviewing preparations for the upcoming student union elections at a meeting with heads of higher educational institutions.

The meeting was attended virtually by principals of colleges, registrars of universities and chairpersons of postgraduate councils from across Odisha.

Agrawal stressed that maintaining a peaceful campus environment must be a priority during the election process. He directed institutional heads to take all necessary preventive measures to ensure that student elections do not lead to violence or disruption of academic activities.

The authorities were also asked to remain vigilant throughout the electoral process and take timely steps to address any situation that could threaten campus peace.

The Higher Education Department emphasised that elections should be conducted in a safe, orderly and conducive academic environment, allowing students to participate in the democratic process without fear or disruption.

The meeting focused on ensuring that colleges and universities are adequately prepared for the upcoming polls and that necessary arrangements are put in place well ahead of the election process.