More than 400 colleges affiliated with Kerala’s University of Calicut will conduct two‑day student union elections for the 2026‑27 academic year. The university is overhauling election rules for the first time in 25 years amid violence and legal disputes in previous polls.

  • Polling and counting scheduled for Oct 14‑15
  • Comprehensive rule overhaul based on J.M. Lyngdoh Committee
  • Mixed reactions from student political groups

Election Schedule and Procedure

Student union elections across more than 400 colleges under the University of Calicut (CU) will be held on 14 and 15 October. Colleges that have opted for the parliamentary mode will vote for class representatives on 14 October, with counting on the same day. Colleges using the presidential mode, as well as union functionary elections for parliamentary‑mode colleges, will take place on 15 October, with counting that day as well.

Rule Revision Details

According to a circular from the Dean of Students’ Welfare, nomination papers must be submitted by 1 October, and withdrawals after scrutiny are allowed until 5 October. These timelines align with the J.M. Lyngdoh Committee’s recommendations, which call for the first major update to election norms in a quarter‑century.

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Historical Background

Until now, CU’s student union elections were completed in a single day. Recurrent violence and alleged violations of university statutes in 2025 forced the cancellation of campus‑wide elections, prompting the Vice‑Chancellor to appoint a five‑member committee chaired by N. Mohammedali, Director of the College Development Council. The committee’s report, submitted on 12 September, is slated for discussion at the Syndicate meeting on 19 September.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that modernising election guidelines will not only curb campus unrest but also strengthen democratic participation among youth, enhancing the reputation of Kerala’s higher‑education system both nationally and internationally.

"Reforming the rules makes student politics more transparent and safe," says education policy expert Dr. Archana Singh.
Did You Know?: The University of Calicut, established in 1968, is one of the largest universities in South India, serving over 500,000 students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will every college use the same voting system?

A: No, colleges will follow either the parliamentary or presidential mode they have selected.

Q2: When will the new rules take effect?

A: The revised guidelines will be applied to this year’s polls and become permanent for subsequent academic sessions.