Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – In a fervent display of demand for a newly elected student union, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) witnessed a demonstration on Thursday led by students under the banner of JNUSU. Advocating for immediate elections, the demonstrators asserted that the need for a freshly elected student union is paramount for the betterment of the campus.
The protesters, carrying placards , gathered outside the office of the Dean of Students. The demonstration took a more assertive turn as students reportedly attacked the office to press for their demand.
A delegation from JNUSU engaged with the Secretary of the Dean, seeking clarity on the timeline for the elections. However, the students alleged that no concrete answers were provided, leaving them dissatisfied.
Madhur Mane, a representative of JNUSU, emphasised that the demonstration aimed to protect the institution that has historically fought and triumphed in various struggles. He highlighted concerns about the progressive policies of JNU being under threat, citing instances such as the dissolution of GSCASH, elimination of demerit points for PhD admissions, attempted fee hikes, and neglect of other policies.
Aishe Ghosh, the President of the Students’ Union, expressed urgency regarding the restoration of progressive policies and called for immediate JNUSU elections. Students voiced their grievances, alleging that the university administration has been employing delaying tactics, affecting academic sessions for MA and Ph.D. students.
The protestors also demanded the immediate release of a notification for JNUSU elections, a reduction in semester fees, ensuring a safe campus for women, and a transparent hostel allocation process. The students urged swift action on these fronts, emphasising the importance of restoring a dynamic and progressive campus environment.