Dope Test in JnUCSU Polls: Students, Journalists, Student Leaders React

The draft conduct rules for the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JnUCSU) election, released on Tuesday night, have sparked widespread debate, particularly over the mandatory dope test for candidates. The rules, published on the JnUCSU website, state that the commission will screen candidates for drug addiction via dope tests, disqualifying those testing positive. Absence from the test will automatically cancel nominations.

The provision has elicited mixed reactions from students, journalists, and student leaders, who largely view it as a positive step toward clean politics.

The rules under Section 3 read: “The commission will test each candidate for drug addiction via dope test, and if proven positive, the candidature will be canceled. Absence from the dope test will automatically cancel the nomination paper.”

Students’ Reactions Sami Mahmud, a Bengali Department student, praised the move: “The dope test decision is commendable. Those leading must be drug-free. This will take the campus closer to a drug-free environment.”

Tushar Jowarddar, from Accounting & Information Systems, said, “It will ensure healthy competition and fair elections. Elected representatives must be mentally strong and character-driven. This initiative could set an example for other institutions.”

Jahid Hasan Parvez added, “We don’t want drug addicts representing students. It’s timely and good.”

Journalists and Cultural Figures Journalist and student Obaydul Islam called it “a courageous step.” “It’s not just verification but a pledge for honest, clear-minded politics. It will foster transparency, accountability, and ethical values among future leaders.”

Cultural figure and Photographic Society President Mohammad Cholayman Khan said, “If we talk about a drug-free, conscious generation, we must lead by example. Dope test is a promise of clean leadership. I hope it becomes permanent, with all candidates participating willingly.”

Student Leaders’ Views Chhatra Adhikar Parishad joint general secretary Sohanan Pramanik said, “It will aid in building ethical leadership. It marks the start of positive change in student politics.”

Jamiatul Mal secretary of Chhatra Shibir, Mostafizur Rahman, said, “We welcome it. We want representatives who are physically and mentally fit, responsible. This will create a positive, ethical leadership.”

Chhatra Dal zone convener member Abu Bakar Khan said, “I want JnUCSU to have healthy, clear-minded people. No drug addicts or intoxicated individuals.”

Election Commissioner’s Take Chief Election Commissioner Professor Dr. Mostafa Hasan said, “We have a meeting on Sunday. The election will be clean. We’ve made a preliminary decision on dope tests. We haven’t set a date yet. We’ll decide after thorough discussion. We want to gift students a beautiful JnUCSU.”