The student leaders in the state have already formed a group called ‘Odisha Student Leaders’ Forum’ with the goal of creating self-awareness among the people and give a new dimension to the political system of Odisha. Former Student Union Leaders such as Abhinna Kumar Hota, Satyabrata Panda, Sanjib Patry, Badri Mohanty, Tumbanath Panda, Ajay Kumar Mishra, Brajendra Kishore Panda etc. have joined this movement.
The above leaders were part of the Seminar organised by ‘Subarta’ yesterday. They all agreed on the need of mobilizing student power to uphold the democratic values in the state, which have come under constant threat over the last few years. They did not bat for any party, but were unequivocal in their opposition to the ruling Biju Janata Dal and its leader Naveen Patnaik, saying the state has failed to progress despite the mandate enjoyed by the ruling party for the last 16 years. This movement may change the political discourse in Odisha – sooner or later.