Bhubaneswar, Oct. 2: The authorities of Utkal University have decided to seek the opinion of the state's advocate general on the candidature of Mahesh Prasad who had filed nomination for the post of students' union president.

Tension prevailed on the campus yesterday after two other aspirants for the post of students' union president challenged the nomination of Mahesh on the ground that he had a criminal case pending against him. They contended that according to the Lyngdoh Commission's recommendations, Prasad could not contest the elections.

"Prasad was arrested by Saheed Nagar police in October 2014 for campus violence. The police had filed a charge sheet against him. This means he is under trial, therefore his nomination papers should be rejected," said Gayatri Satapathy, who is contesting for students' union president.

The university authorities have decided to go ahead with the poll on October 5.

Mahesh's supporters said he was yet to face trial. "The matter was discussed at a meeting today with the candidates, representatives of student organisations, lawyers and the Utkal vice-chancellorwe will <>proceed on the basis of his recommendation. Tension prevailed on the campus yesterday when the agitators locked the main gate and did not allow the university authorities to go out. The agitators also had a scuffle with the police.

Deputy commissioner of police Satyabrata Bhoi said the cops are keeping a close watch on the campus. "Adequate police personnel have been deployed on the campus. Stringent action will be taken against troublemakers," said Bhoi.