Six students of Jagannath University (JnU) have regained their candidacy in the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JACSU) elections following the successful submission of appeals against the cancellation of their nomination papers. The development was confirmed on Sunday through an official notification signed by the University’s Acting Registrar, Md Sheikh Gias Uddin.
According to the notice, the Election Commission had earlier cancelled the nomination papers of seventeen candidates after reviewing their applications under the regulations outlined for the formation and operation of JACSU and the hall students’ unions. The cancellation occurred during the initial scrutiny process, which aims to ensure that all contestants meet the required academic, ethical, and disciplinary criteria.
Out of the seventeen rejected candidates, fifteen submitted formal appeals, invoking JACSU Election Rule 15(6), which permits a candidate to contest the Commission’s decision. After a fresh round of review, six of these appeals were accepted, reinstating the students’ right to contest the upcoming election. The University authorities stated that the appeals were scrutinised with utmost transparency, reviewing both documentary evidence and eligibility criteria.
The students who successfully regained their candidacy include:
Mithun Chandra Roy, contesting as an independent candidate for the Vice-President (VP) post.
Mugdha Anan, the sports secretary candidate representing the left alliance-backed ‘Maulana Bhasani Brigade’ panel.
Mohammad Jorgis Anwar Naeem, sports secretary candidate from the ‘Adommo Jobian Oikko’ panel, reportedly supported by Shibir.
Hasnan Al Sabit, independent candidate for executive member.
Md Zahidul Islam Rifat, independent candidate for executive member.
Md Shihab Uddin Hifzu, independent candidate for executive member.
The reinstatement is expected to have a significant impact on the electoral landscape, as several of these candidates represent influential student panels. The VP post, in particular, is considered one of the most crucial positions in student politics at the University, and the re-entry of an independent candidate like Mithun Chandra Roy could reshape campaign dynamics.
A total of 267 students initially collected nomination forms to contest in 21 posts. Eventually, 211 formally submitted their nomination papers. Following scrutiny, 17 candidates were eliminated, leaving 194 names on the preliminary list published by the Election Commission. With the appeals of six candidates now upheld, the updated list reflects a more inclusive and competitive race.
When contacted by reporters, the Chief Election Commissioner of JACSU, Professor Mostafa Hasan, stated:
“Those who were excluded initially applied to the University administration. After reviewing the appeals meticulously, approval has been granted to six candidates who were deemed eligible under the existing rules.”
The reinstated candidates and their supporters have welcomed the decision, viewing it as a victory for procedural fairness. As the election date approaches, tensions, anticipation, and campaign activities are expected to intensify on campus.