Burla (Sambalpur): Student unrest escalated at Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla, on Tuesday as hundreds of second-year students staged a protest over a range of long-standing grievances, including poor quality food, inadequate hostel facilities, and the enforcement of a mandatory uniform policy.

Today, nearly 1,000 students assembled in front of the university’s administrative block. The agitation was primarily driven by dissatisfaction among second-year engineering students, who have been opposing the compulsory uniform rule introduced last year.

Students argued wearing the same uniform daily is impractical, especially without proper washing facilities in hostels. They also raised concerns about the quality of the uniform fabric, stating that only polyester material is available in the prescribed color, making it uncomfortable for all-day wear.

In addition to the dress code issue, students highlighted several hostel-related problems. They alleged washing machines are non-functional, sanitation is poorly maintained, and despite an increase in hostel fees, the quality of food remains substandard. Students also complained about overcrowding, claiming four occupants are being accommodated in rooms meant for three.

Earlier in the day, a delegation of students held discussions with university authorities, but the talks failed to yield any resolution. Following this, the students launched a sit-in protest and continued their agitation without food.

The situation de-escalated around 4:00 PM after Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deepak Sahu visited the protest site and held direct discussions with the students. He assured them if their demands are submitted in writing by Friday, the matter will be taken up during the Board meeting scheduled for Saturday, and an appropriate decision will be made.

Based on this assurance, the students temporarily withdrew their protest. However, they warned that if their demands are not addressed satisfactorily, they will resume agitation.

During the protest, minor tensions were reported between some faculty members and students. To maintain law and order, Burla police were deployed at the scene.

Meanwhile, authorities of the university urged parents and guardians of the second year B.Tech/B.Arch students to attend a meeting regarding issues related to the ongoing student protest and the academic environment of the university on July 23, 2026 in its premises.