Student Union Elections In Colleges Across Karnataka After 37 Years; No Political Party Banners Allowed

Last Updated:September 10, 2026, 03:53 IST

Karnataka Cabinet approves student elections in colleges after 37 years, with no political party banners and no mandatory voting process.

Karnataka Revives Student Elections After 37 Years, Bans Party Banners

The Karnataka Cabinet has approved the holding of student elections in colleges, nearly 37 years after such elections were banned during the Veerendra Patil government amid concerns over uncontrollable law-and-order issues at the time.

Defined Structure For Student Elections

According to the Cabinet decision, the elections will follow a defined structure. Each college will elect one president, two vice-presidents, one secretary and six joint secretaries.

Of the two vice-presidents, one must be a woman. Two of the six joint secretaries must also be women.

No Reservation In Student Elections

However, there will be no reservation in the student elections, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said.

Student Organisations Can Contest Independently

Student organisations will be allowed to contest the elections, but they cannot do so under the banner of political parties such as NSUI or ABVP.

Candidates from student organisations will have to contest as individuals rather than representing any political party.

Elections Not Mandatory For Colleges

The student elections will not be compulsory. If students in a college do not want elections to be held, no election will be conducted at that institution.

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When were student union elections last held in Karnataka colleges before the recent approval?

Student union elections in Karnataka colleges were banned nearly 37 years ago during the Veerendra Patil government due to concerns over law-and-order issues.

What is the approved structure for student elections in Karnataka colleges?

The approved structure for student elections in Karnataka colleges includes one president, two vice-presidents (one must be a woman), and six joint secretaries (two must be women).

Are political party banners allowed for student organizations contesting elections in Karnataka?

No, student organizations are not allowed to contest under the banner of political parties like NSUI or ABVP; candidates must run as individuals.

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Pragya Bahuguna

Pragya Bahuguna is a digital journalist at News18.com, covering national and international news, including Indian politics and geopolitics, with an interest in environment and climate affairs. She hol…Read More

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