Police patrol Utkal University after pre-election violence

Bhubaneswar DCP Saravana Vivek M confirmed that law enforcement intervened immediately to stabilize the situation, with the Commissioner of Police personally visiting the grounds to ensure order. While authorities have pledged a secure environment for the upcoming vote, the atmosphere remains volatile. ABVP candidate Smita Sahu alleged that opposition members turned to violence upon sensing their electoral defeat, claiming they smashed furniture to disrupt the process.

Beyond the political skirmishes, students have voiced alarm over the presence of non-students on campus. One student alleged that outsiders are exerting pressure and issuing death threats to those who refuse to align with specific political factions. These safety concerns have led to calls for the Vice-Chancellor to intervene, with some students threatening to boycott the election unless the administration takes accountability for the intimidation tactics reported near the hostel facilities.