Usual activities of the Central Student Union (CSU) of Jagannath University have become almost non-functional due to political rivalry and joint maneuvering by JCD and Shibir factions on campus. The union is facing growing criticism over internal conflicts and its failure to address key student welfare issues.
Formed through the university's first-ever central student union election in January 2026, the JnUCSU has struggled to fulfil its commitments to general students.
While talking to this correspondent of The Daily Observer several elected representatives and students alleged factional rivalry between Islami Chhatra Shibir and Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD)-backed members has weakened the union's effectiveness.
In April, four JCD-backed office bearers accused the Shibir-backed majority of using the union for partisan political interests instead of collectively representing students. The dispute exposed deep divisions within the CSU and sparked public demonstrations and competing press briefings.
Observers also noted that the union lacks the administrative experience and institutional framework necessary for effective operations. Meanwhile, long-standing student problems, including accommodation shortages, transport crises, limited medical facilities, underfunded laboratories, and academic delays, remain unresolved.
CSU leaders blamed administrative restrictions for limiting their activities. Vice-President Riazul Islam alleged the university administration had not provided financial support or approved several student-oriented initiatives.
Independent representative Jahid said the poor coordination among members and political influence from parent organisations remain major obstacles to the union's effectiveness.