Bhubaneswar, July 5: Utkal University authorities today withdrew their decision to increase the existing hostel fee following protest by the students.

“The hostel fee will remain the same as before and there will be no hike in the fee this year. If required, the hike will be implemented from next year onwards,” said P.K. Sahoo, vice-chancellor.

The decision to hike fees had invited the ire of students who had gone on violent protests on July 1 following which the authorities had kept the decision in abeyance.

The varsity had almost doubled the fees this year citing improved security arrangements on campus and repair work of the dilapidated hostel buildings.

“We are very happy with the decision of the university and thank the authorities for understanding the sentiments of the poor students who come here from far-flung areas of the state to pursue higher education,” said student leader Tanmay Swain.

The varsity authorities have decided to turn to the state government for at least Rs 1 crore aid for the immediate repair of hostels, many of which are in ‘unsafe’ condition.