Rejected but Now Back! Six Candidates Make a Stunning Comeback in JnU Polls

Six students who had earlier been disqualified from contesting the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JACSU) election have now been reinstated following the successful review of their appeals. The confirmation came on Sunday through a formal notification issued by Acting Registrar Md Sheikh Gias Uddin.

The decision marks a significant development in one of the most anticipated student elections in recent years. JACSU, which functions as the university’s apex student representative body, plays an important role in voicing student concerns and fostering leadership.

Initially, the Election Commission disqualified seventeen candidates during the scrutiny of nomination papers. This examination was conducted according to the JACSU and hall union regulations that set out eligibility criteria for candidates, including conduct, academic standing, and disciplinary history.

Fifteen of the rejected candidates filed appeals under Election Regulation 15(6), which provides an opportunity to challenge the Commission’s initial decision. After reviewing the appeals and verifying the provided documentation, the University administration reinstated six candidates.

The six reinstated students are:

Mithun Chandra Roy, an independent candidate vying for the prestigious Vice-President position.

Mugdha Anan, representing the left alliance-backed ‘Maulana Bhasani Brigade’ panel for sports secretary.

Mohammad Jorgis Anwar Naeem, sports secretary candidate from the ‘Adommo Jobian Oikko’ panel.

Hasnan Al Sabit, independent candidate for executive member.

Md Zahidul Islam Rifat, independent candidate for executive member.

Md Shihab Uddin Hifzu, independent candidate for executive member.

The reinstatement of these candidates is expected to alter the electoral dynamics significantly, particularly in the race for top-tier positions such as Vice-President. Independent candidates often shift the balance of competition and can influence political alignments within the campus.

Out of 267 students who collected nomination forms, 211 eventually submitted their papers for the 21 available posts. The Commission’s preliminary list included 194 names after the elimination of 17 candidates. The acceptance of six appeals now modifies the official candidate pool, making the race more competitive and diverse.

Speaking about the process, the Chief Election Commissioner, Professor Mostafa Hasan, said:
“Candidates who were disqualified approached the University authority with appeals. After re-evaluation and verification, the administration decided to restore their candidacy in accordance with the rules.”

The decision has been widely discussed among students, with many praising the transparency shown by the election authorities. Supporters of the reinstated candidates have celebrated the ruling, viewing it as a corrective measure that ensures fairness.

With the election drawing closer, campaigns are expected to intensify, and student organisations are already mobilising supporters. The reinstatement has added renewed energy to several panels, ensuring that competition remains vibrant in the run-up to the polls.