Election in Educational Institutions in Orissa

Recent violence in Utkal University came into lime light because it is situated in the heart of the state capital where media coverage is the highest in the state and the nature of the violence was high.But this is not the only violence happening in Orissa in recent times or in the past in colleges and universities.It is common for all government institution weather small or big.Six bused were set on fire , six ATM were broken ,one Bank office was damaged , and even one hospital was attacked by some students of Utkal Universityin the recent incident .

What a society can expect from such so called educated students who do not hesitate to attack a hospital where half dead patients are struggling for life and damage public property.One question is that "had they dare to destroy their own property for the sake of strike".On the other hand, the administration is so incapable that few actions has been taken against such students in the past. Either the officials are influenced by the politicians or threatened by the students.

The motto of college election is representation of students in the general activities of colleges and allow them to present their demands.But those who have ever be a part of such institutions in Orissa can realise that the actual positive impact is very less .The represented candidates only interested in corruption , bribe from several companies etc. But one certain result of such election is violence ,damage to government property,interruption of regular classes etc.

So ,why we need such election if the objective deviates from the reality ? There are few colleges in Orissa, where election is restricted or only indirect election is possible. G.M college in Sambalpur conducts such indirect election .The procedure for such election is that first each class will select their leader and the head of the institution (President ,Secretary and others) will be nominated by the selected candidates.Such type of election procedure fulfill the objective of representation and at the same time reduces violence.

The government should think to adopt the indirect election procedure across the state .It will helpful in reducing unnecessary ferocity and will helpful in continuance of peace education in the state.