India, Oct. 18 -- Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday described the revival of student union elections in the state after nearly a decade as a triumph of democratic faith over fear, asserting that the peaceful conduct of the polls reflected the confidence of young people in the democratic process.

Addressing the newly-elected student union representatives at an event in Kataka, Majhi said his government had placed its trust in the youth despite concerns and calls for postponing the elections. He said the students had responded with a peaceful, disciplined and decisive mandate.

Taking a swipe at the previous government, the Chief Minister alleged that student elections were banned in 2017, despite the ruling establishment...