The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student union elections are set to take place on November 4, allowing 9,043 eligible voters the opportunity to cast their ballots. This election sees an interesting competition between left-wing and right-wing factions, which is shaping up as a significant democratic event on campus.
Key Contenders in JNU Elections
Three left-wing parties have unified in opposition to the right-wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). The left-wing coalition comprises:
- All India Students’ Association (AISA)
- Democratic Students’ Federation (DSF)
- Students’ Federation of India (SFI)
Additionally, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), Progressive Students’ Association (PSA), Disha Students’ Organisation (DSO), and various independents have introduced more diversity to the candidacy pool.
Candidates Overview
A total of seven candidates are vying for the presidency, including:
- Aditi Mishra (Left) – PhD scholar at the School of International Studies
- Vikas Patel (Right) – PhD research scholar
- Angad Singh
- Raj Ratan Rajoriya
- Shinde Vijayalaxmi Vyankat Rao
- Shirshava Indu
- Vikash
For the vice-presidential post, candidates include:
- Kizhakoot Gopika Babu (Left)
- Tanya Kumari (Right)
- Shaikh Shahnawaz Alam
Contenders for general secretary are:
- Sunil Yadav (Left)
- Rajeshwar Kant Dubey (Right)
- Preeti
- Gopi Krishnan U
- Shuaib Khan
Lastly, the joint secretary candidates include:
- Danish Ali (Left)
- Anuj Damara (Right)
- Kuldeep Ojha
- Manmohan Mitruka
- Ravi Raj
Current Political Climate
Left-wing candidate Aditi Mishra has highlighted crucial issues, including environmental concerns in Ladakh and youth unemployment. She argues that young individuals are misdirected to focus on religious disputes rather than job opportunities.
In contrast, right-wing candidate Vikas Patel has criticized the left, claiming they have “ruled and ruined JNU for 50 years.” As tensions rise and ideology clashes, the election results could significantly influence campus politics.
Historical Context
JNU has been a bastion for left-wing politics, with the Left alliance claiming three out of four central panel positions in the previous election cycle. The ABVP secured the joint secretary position. In those elections, the left maintained its traditional dominance, winning by narrow margins of votes.
This year, 30% of central panel nominations are from female candidates, marking a progressive shift in the university’s political landscape.
The elections at JNU are more than just a student affair; they echo broader national ideological battles. As polling day approaches, all eyes will be on the outcome of this pivotal contest.
