Voter turnout in the long-awaited Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (Jnucsu) election picked up as the day progressed, after a relatively quiet start in the morning.
Observers noted that while queues were short in the early hours, lines lengthened steadily after 11:30am.
Students from various departments and faculties flocked to polling centres across the university to cast their votes.
Some students initially hesitated due to cold weather and safety concerns.
Dipanjak Banik, a 17th Batch accounting student (session 2021–22), said, “It was tough to come early in this cold. I had heard some news suggesting the election might be cancelled. But on arrival, I saw the security arrangements were strong, and personnel were performing their duties properly. I hope we can have a transparent and peaceful election without any untoward incidents.”
To avoid the morning rush, several students planned to vote later in the day. Nishi, a student from the 2020–21 session, said, “I decided to come a bit later, hoping the crowd would thin by noon. The environment looks good so far, and I hope we end the day with a fair and smooth election.”
Students also expressed their expectations for the leadership to be elected. Maisha Tasnim Mithila, an economics student, said, “We all have high hopes from Jnucsu. Whoever wins, they should work wholeheartedly for the development of the university and prioritise the interests of ordinary students.”
University authorities and security personnel have been actively maintaining order across the campus. No major untoward incidents have been reported. The election has created a festival-like atmosphere, reflecting students’ long-standing anticipation for a fair and vibrant Jnucsu poll.
