Odisha Student Union Elections 2026: Polls in 328 Colleges, 13 Universities on October 15

Bhubaneswar, Oct 8 (UDN): Odisha is gearing up for student union elections after an eight-year gap, with polling scheduled to be held across 328 colleges and 13 universities on October 15.

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Higher educational institutions across the state issued formal election notifications on Wednesday, setting the process in motion for the selection of student representatives.

According to the Higher Education Department, a total of 341 institutions will conduct direct elections. Another 205 institutions, comprising 202 colleges and three universities, will choose student leaders through a selection process.

Odisha Student Election Schedule

The election process will begin with the filing of nominations on October 9.

Nomination filing: October 9, 10 am to 1 pm
Scrutiny of nominations: October 9, 2 pm to 4 pm
Final list of candidates: October 10
‘Why I Stand For’ meetings: October 14
Polling: October 15, 8 am to 2 pm
Counting and results: October 15
Oath-taking ceremony: October 16

The three universities opting for the selection process are Odia University, Sri Jagannath Sanskrit University and Gangadhar Meher University.

Security Measures Intensified

With student politics expected to remain active across campuses, police and college authorities have stepped up security arrangements, particularly in Bhubaneswar.

DCP Saravana Vivek M said strict action would be taken against non-students found entering campuses during the election period. Police are also keeping a watch on social media platforms to identify and prevent any attempts to create disturbances.

At Utkal University, more than 150 CCTV cameras will monitor key areas, including hostels, canteens and entry and exit points. Campus authorities are also planning to use public-address systems and coordinate with police to prevent unauthorised outside interference.

The return of student union elections after eight years has generated considerable interest among students, with institutions now preparing for the nomination, campaigning and polling phases.