National Law University, Odisha (NLU Odisha), finds itself embroiled in controversy as students launch an indefinite protest over alleged administrative lapses and unresolved grievances. The administration has dismissed the protests as “illegal, unlawful, and unreasonable,” while the students have accused the university of failing to address long-standing issues and penalizing dissenters.
The protests began in opposition to the Academic Council’s decision to evaluate tutorial classes, a move that has drawn widespread discontent among the student body. In its official statement, the university alleged that students were attempting to “pressurize the University to give in to their unlawful demands” and accused them of deliberately timing the protest to disrupt major university events, including the 3rd Annual Flower Show and a Review Commission visit.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ved Kumari defended the administration’s stance, stating, “My position does not allow me to overrule the Academic Council’s decision, but the matter will be placed before the next meeting.” She also expressed frustration over the students’ actions, claiming that interim measures were offered to address their concerns, but these were rejected. “The unreasonable and malafide nature of their protest is manifested in their actions,” the statement added.
The university maintained that grievances related to infrastructure, library access, and mental health facilities had either been resolved or were in the process of resolution. However, the administration questioned the legitimacy of the Student Council, alleging that it lacked electoral backing and had internal conflicts, with members resigning due to “internal pressures.”
The students, meanwhile, have continued their protest, demanding infrastructure and financial transparency, removal of arbitrary evaluation practices, better grievance redressal mechanisms, academic reforms, and 24/7 access to academic blocks. Their demands also include improved faculty standards and a curriculum overhaul.
The administration reiterated its willingness to engage in dialogue but only after the conclusion of the upcoming events. As the standoff continues, the protests highlight growing tensions over governance and accountability in premier legal institutions like NLU Odisha.
