Naveen Patnaik Alleges BJP Interference in Odisha Student Elections, Hails BCJD Success
Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik has alleged that the BJP-led Odisha government attempted to influence the recently concluded student union elections across colleges and universities in the state while congratulating the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) for its performance.
Patnaik praised the BCJD’s electoral success and claimed that the student wing emerged victorious in a majority of educational institutions despite what he described as extensive interference by the ruling establishment.
According to him, the election results reflect the confidence placed by students in BCJD and its leadership.
The BJD leader accused the state government of using administrative influence, intimidation, money power, and other unfair means to affect the outcome of campus elections.
He alleged that authorities in educational institutions faced pressure during the election process and that BCJD-backed candidates encountered various hurdles.
The opposition party further argued that educational institutions should remain free from political interference and provide a fair democratic environment for students.
Party leaders maintained that students are capable of making independent political choices and should not face discrimination on the basis of their affiliations.
BJD leaders also claimed that the election outcome reflects growing support among young voters and students for Naveen Patnaik’s leadership.
The party contended that the results demonstrate the aspirations of Odisha’s youth and called upon the government to focus on addressing student concerns rather than influencing campus politics.
The BJD has urged the state government to ensure autonomy and neutrality in educational institutions and respect the democratic mandate expressed by students during the elections.
