New Delhi, February 12, 2024: The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus witnessed a fiery confrontation late Friday night during the University General Body Meeting (UGBM). The meeting, convened to select members of the election commission responsible for overseeing the 2024 JNUSU polls, turned into a battleground as student groups clashed over ideological differences.
The Parties Involved
- Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP): An RSS-affiliated student group known for its right-leaning stance.
- Left-associated groups: This coalition includes the All India Students’ Association (AISA) and the Democratic Students Federation (DSF), both advocating left-leaning ideologies.
The Sabarmati Dhaba Scuffle
The tension escalated at the Sabarmati Dhaba on campus, where heated arguments and shouting matches erupted. Both sides claimed injuries, and videos circulating on social media captured the intensity of the clash. The ABVP accused the Left-led parties of disrupting the meeting, while the latter emphasized the need to protect democratic ethos within the university.
Police Standoff
The Delhi police received a PCR call, but they refrained from entering the campus. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and tensions remain high.
Statements and Allegations
- AISA criticized the ABVP’s opposition to democratic processes within the campus, emphasizing the importance of fair representation.
- The ABVP alleged that casteist slurs were directed at them during the meeting, further fueling the confrontation.
- The DSF called for maintaining a safe environment for all students, regardless of their affiliations.
The Battle for Representation
Student union elections at JNU have always been charged with ideological fervor. As differing worldviews collide, the pursuit of representation and governance takes center stage. The clash during the UGBM serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved in these elections.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds within the hallowed halls of JNU.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available information and eyewitness accounts. The views expressed by the involved student groups do not necessarily reflect those of the almamater.