Bhubaneswar, Oct. 4: On the eve of students' union elections today, aspirants for various posts gave their best shot and made every attempt to garner the maximum number of votes at the "What I stand for" meeting.

The meetings were held under the supervision of faculty members of colleges and universities. Adequate security measures were taken to ensure the meeting was conducted peacefully. Poll fever ran high as the candidates and their supporters reached the meeting venue in a large procession amid drumbeats and slogans shouting. At Ramadevi University, some candidates were seen riding on the shoulders of their supporters. The aspiring leaders had to make their way through packed halls where scores of students had gathered.

"We have prepared as our performance at the meeting is important. Students judge us on the basis of eloquence, style and confidence. They cast their votes on the basis of their opinion," said Gayatri Satapathy, who is contesting for the post of president at Utkal University.

Each candidate was allowed to speak for five minutes. After sharing their thoughts, the aspirants appealed the students to vote for them. Many promises were made - from Wi-Fi to increased security arrangements on the campus - to convince the voters. Some vowed to make efforts for proper placements and recruitment of teachers, while others assured construction of over-bridges and toilets for better sanitation.

When the meeting concluded, the candidates and their supporters rigorously campaigned on the campus and hostels. "Only one day is left for the poll day; it is extremely important for us to campaign extensively. We are not going to waste a second," said Ipsita Sahoo of Utkal University, who is contesting for the post of general secretary.

The students' elections this time saw some controversies as well.

A section of students from the National Students Union of India claimed that the advocate general had opposed the candidature of Biju Chhatra Janata Dal presidential candidate Mahesh Prasad at Utkal University but left the final decision to the vice-chancellor. However, Utkal University authorities denied the allegation.

Elections at Godabarish College and Kshitrabasi Dayanand Anglo Vedic College in Khurda were cancelled following unrest. In Balasore, elections have been cancelled at the Government Women's College and Harekrushna Mahatab College. Polls at Anandpur College at Keonjhar were also cancelled because of violence.