Bhubaneswar: As many as 1,653 candidates — 1,620 at the college level and 33 at the university level — have won unopposed in student union elections across the state, according to data released by higher education department on Friday, the day of nomination filing.At least 348 colleges and 13 universities are conducting the student union polls after a gap of nearly nine years. Across the participating colleges, a total of 8,325 nominations were filed. Of these, 1,156 were rejected, leaving 7,169 valid candidates.Among the key office-bearer posts, the president’s post recorded 1,149 valid nominations, followed by vice-president with 869 and general secretary with 758.Meanwhile, processions, campaign promises and biryani parties marked the nomination process, as aspirants from the ABVP, BCJD, NSUI and other student outfits, besides independents, descended on campuses with their supporters. From academic concerns and campus infrastructure to students’ demands for better facilities, candidates promised to take up issues that matter to the student community and ensure their voices are heard.Department officials said that institutions have been directed to ensure that the election process remains peaceful, with measures in place to prevent violence and keep outsiders away from the campuses.Polling is scheduled for Oct 15, followed by the declaration of results and oath-taking as per the notified schedule.
