Bhubaneswar, Oct 14: Tension prevailed at Utkal University in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday after a clash reportedly broke out between two groups of students backed by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD), respectively, ahead of the student union elections scheduled for October 15.
According to reports, the confrontation followed a disagreement over the alleged presence of non-students at a ‘Why I Stand For’ meeting organised as part of the campus election process. The dispute reportedly escalated, leading to a clash between members of the rival groups and creating an atmosphere of tension on the university campus.
Several chairs were reportedly damaged during the incident. The disturbance also disrupted proceedings, forcing the scheduled meeting to remain incomplete. The incident came just a day before polling, adding to tensions on the campus ahead of the closely watched student union elections.
Following information about the clash, police personnel rushed to the university to bring the situation under control and prevent further escalation. Bhubaneswar Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) also reached the spot and, along with other police personnel, attempted to pacify the agitated students.
The police intervention was aimed at restoring normalcy on the campus as preparations continued for the October 15 polls. Further details about the circumstances leading to the confrontation, the extent of the damage and any possible action in connection with the incident were not immediately available.
The clash has raised concerns about maintaining peace and discipline during the election process. The situation remained under attention as the university prepared for polling, with further information awaited from the authorities.
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