Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday described the revival of student union elections in the state after nearly a decade as a triumph of democratic faith over fear, asserting that the peaceful conduct of the polls reflected the confidence of young people in the democratic process.

Addressing the newly-elected student union representatives at an event in Kataka, Majhi said his government had placed its trust in the youth despite concerns and calls for postponing the elections. He said the students had responded with a peaceful, disciplined and decisive mandate.

Taking a swipe at the previous government, the Chief Minister alleged that student elections were banned in 2017, despite the ruling establishment's earlier association with student activism. He also criticised those who had advocated delaying the polls on the grounds that Gen Z was unhappy.

Majhi said the election results, particularly the historic victory of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) across Odisha, demonstrated the youth's support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of development. Drawing a parallel with the outcome at Delhi University, he said the results reflected the aspirations of young people for a developed India and Odisha.

However, the Chief Minister cautioned the newly elected student leaders against becoming arrogant over their victories. He emphasised that winning an election marked the beginning of greater responsibilities and hard work.

According to Majhi, student representatives must prioritise the welfare of their fellow students by addressing academic concerns, improving hostel-related facilities and ensuring a better campus environment.

He also called upon the student leaders to take a firm pledge to make educational institutions drug-free. Stressing the importance of constructive engagement, he urged them to counter what he described as malicious narratives through positive communication and responsible leadership.

Majhi said students had an important role to play in nation-building and in contributing to the vision of a prosperous and developed Odisha.