Campus Poll Tensions Rise in Balasore as Rival Student Groups Clash

Balasore, Oct 8 (UDN): Student politics has turned tense in parts of Balasore district ahead of the upcoming campus elections, with rival student groups reportedly clashing outside Fakir Mohan (FM) College and an NSUI election banner allegedly being vandalised at Nilagiri College.

The incidents have sparked concerns over campus security and the possibility of further political confrontation as student organisations step up election-related activities.

Dispute Over Candidate Selection at FM College

Tension reportedly surfaced at Fakir Mohan College after differences emerged among members of the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) over the selection of the organisation’s official candidate.

Following the issuance of the college election notification, supporters of student leader Bhibhudutta Parida and BCJD district president Harekrushna Das allegedly engaged in a heated exchange outside the college premises.

The situation was brought under control after the confrontation, with no immediate report of any major untoward incident.

NSUI Banner Allegedly Torn Down at Nilagiri College

A separate incident was reported at Nilagiri College, where an NSUI banner put up along the college road was allegedly torn down by unidentified persons.

The banner, which had reportedly been installed two days earlier, highlighted the student organisation’s activities and support among students.

Following the alleged vandalism, NSUI members staged a protest near the college gate and condemned the incident. Local NSUI leaders demanded that those responsible be identified and appropriate action be taken.

Appeal for Peaceful Campus Elections

The developments have added to concerns over tensions surrounding student union elections in the district.

NSUI presidential candidate Suresh Kumar Mallick condemned the alleged vandalism and appealed to student groups to maintain peace during the election process.

He said the focus should remain on issues concerning students and the development of educational institutions rather than confrontation and disruption.

With campus election activities gathering pace, authorities are expected to maintain close watch on sensitive college premises to prevent further escalation and ensure that the polls are conducted peacefully.