Utkal University Launches Eviction Drive Against Illegal Occupants in Staff Quarters

Bhubaneswar: After clearing outsiders from boys’ hostels, Utkal University has begun an eviction drive to remove unauthorised residents from staff quarters inside the Vani Vihar campus.

The university, which has around 200 quarters for teaching and non-teaching employees, has identified at least 12 to 14 illegally occupied by outsiders. Reports suggest nearly 40 quarters are lying in ruins and are set to be renovated soon.

On Tuesday, a group of students stormed the vice-chancellor’s office, demanding immediate action to vacate illegal residents and ensure campus safety. They alleged that some staff quarters, meant for university employees, had been rented out to outsiders who have stayed for years. They also pointed to the unlawful settlement of slum dwellers near the university boundary.

University authorities clarified that most of these quarters had been encroached upon after being left unused by retired staff. “Notices have already been issued to the illegal occupants, and they have been asked to vacate by today. Police force will be engaged if needed,” said ACP (Zone-5) Bishwaranjan Senapati.

Registrar Swati Mishra added that the university is working with the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) to evict slum dwellers in the surrounding areas. Notices have also been served to them.