Odisha University takes action against 100 students for 'indiscipline'

NEW DELHI: The Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla in Odisha has taken action against 100 students for various violations including poor attendance and visiting restricted and prohibited areas, an official said. After a meeting of the Disciplinary Committee on April 25, the university issued an order listing the names of all 100 students along with the punishments. Of the total, the majority belong to the third year, followed by 11 fourth-year students, 11 first-year students, two second-year students, and one MSc student.

The punishments include the reduction of one grade in theory papers of the ongoing semester as per the mid-semester exam schedule, and imposition of fines ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000, as per the order. Some students have also been assigned to participate in social work under the supervision of the vice president of sports or hostel wardens. The list includes the names of six fourth-year girl students who had violated the prohibition order and visited Fishery Point of Hirakud reservoir in Burla, an act that led to the tragic death of a fellow student earlier this month, officials said.

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Grades cut, fines imposed

Along with the reduction of one grade in all theory and seasonal subjects, they have been fined Rs 5,000 each and expelled from their respective hostels. Additionally, around 24 students have been debarred from holding any elected, nominated, or selected offices, participating in activities, or serving as captains of sports teams. They have also been barred from receiving medals, certificates, and prizes linked to academic and extracurricular achievements.

Except for 15 students, the rest have been directed to submit an affidavit, along with their parents, at the office of the Dean of Students' Welfare, affirming their commitment to refrain from any form of indiscipline for the remainder of their time at VSSUT to avoid further severe punishment or expulsion. The disciplinary action follows the death of Saswati Bhoi, a final-year Electrical Engineering student, who drowned at Fishery Point on the banks of Hirakud Reservoir on April 12 while trying to save a friend.