Bhubaneswar, Sept 8: In a decisive step to restore order on campus, Utkal University on Monday launched a massive eviction drive, codenamed “Operation Blue Star,” to clear outsiders from its boys’ hostels.

The operation began around 10:30 am and covered Hostels 1, 2, 3, and 5, which had been illegally occupied by non-students for years. Acting on the directions of the university authorities, a joint team of police personnel, hostel wardens, and senior faculty members carried out the drive under heavy security arrangements.

The operation was led by senior police officials, including five ACPs, four IICs, and 13 SIs, while Zone 5 ACP Biswaranjan Senapati acted as the Executive Magistrate. Sources said that during the eviction, authorities discovered more than 150 rooms occupied by outsiders, many allegedly linked to political groups. Belongings such as clothes and personal items were seized and removed.

The administration confirmed that the eviction drive would continue until all unauthorised occupants are removed, ensuring hostel facilities remain exclusively for students.

The move follows earlier directions from Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, who instructed the university to restrict outsiders’ entry into the Vani Vihar campus to maintain discipline and academic focus.

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