Candidates campaign after filing their nomination papers for the upcoming students’ union election at Ravenshaw University in Cuttack on Friday. Picture by Badrika Nath Das

Cuttack, Sept. 19: Candidates along with their supporters today took out colourful processions in many colleges and the Ravenshaw University to file their nomination papers for the students’ union elections scheduled on October 29.

“The nomination process was over without any problem. I will certainly work for the development of the students’ community and would start campaigning after the publication of the valid list tomorrow,” said Gyana Rout, an aspirant from the university.

Filing of nominations in other colleges, including Sailabala Women’s College, Emarti Devi, Christ College and City College, were also peaceful. “We have started campaigning in our college, but it will be done in a more organised way from tomorrow. We are reaching out to the students with a promise to bring in development in our college,” said Shradhanjali Panda, an aspirant from Sailabala Women’s College.

In a bid to prevent any untoward incident, police have strengthened security measures in colleges. Special measures have been initiated for Ravenshaw University, which will be holding elections after a gap of one year. The students’ union election was cancelled last year and sine dine was imposed in the university following students unrest last year. Two platoons of police have been deployed at the Ravenshaw University, while one platoon has been kept on alert.

“We have made adequate plans for providing security in all the educational institutions in the city and extra focus has been given to Ravenshaw University and City College for the upcoming polls,” said deputy police commissioner Sanjeev Arora.

Police sources said PCR vans would be stationed in all the colleges. The college authorities have been asked to keep strict vigil in the hostels.

“We have installed a number of closed-circuit television cameras. The entry of outsiders will be restricted after 5pm on the campus. All students have been issued identity cards and vehicle passes and the situation on the campuses are being closely monitored,” said Ravenshaw University registrar Padan Jena.