Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Tempers frayed at the Law Faculty of Delhi University on Thursday when saffron flags were raised during an ABVP event, leading to the All India Students’ Association (AISA) protests. The flags were eventually taken down after a demonstration by AISA and Law Faculty students.
ABVP National Media Convenor, Ashutosh Singh, defended the flag hoisting, asserting that Ram is an inspirational figure for all Indian students and youth. Singh claimed that the celebration in Ayodhya on January 22 prompted BJP-RSS to plan ‘victory processions’ on campuses nationwide. He argued that these celebrations were an expression of following the ideals set by Ram.
AISA President at Delhi University, Manik, expressed concerns, alleging that the Law Faculty was draped in communal colours and slogans by ABVP, transforming it into an RSS branch. A delegation from AISA submitted a letter to the Dean of the Faculty of Law, demanding the immediate removal of the saffron flags.
AISA and Law Faculty students called for an end to what they termed as ‘communal politics.’ According to Manik, the questionable saffron flags were removed after their protest.
Ashutosh Singh, in a counter-argument, claimed that leftists are marginalised because they lack faith in Indian icons. He contended that their ideal is Marx-Lenin, and their skepticism towards Indian figures has led to their marginalisation.
Singh suggested that the significant participation of students in ABVP programs indicates a shift away from leftist ideologies, leaving them apprehensive and frustrated. The incident has ignited a debate on the intersection of ideological differences within the academic sphere.
