High-stakes JNU Students’ Union elections today

The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) presidential debate, held on Sunday night, turned into a fiery ideological face off as candidates from Left, Right and centrist student groups outlined their visions for the campus ahead of the union elections scheduled for Tuesday.

The debate, one of the most awaited events in the JNU political calendar, saw seven presidential contenders taking the stage at the Sabarmati Dhaba area, addressing issues ranging from campus infrastructure and research funding to Gaza, Kashmir and freedom of dissent.

Aditi Mishra, the Left Unity candidate and a PhD scholar from the School of International Studies, spoke of reclaiming JNU’s “progressive and inclusive” culture. “JNU stands for resistance and reason. Our fight is not only for fellowships and hostels but for the idea of a democratic university,” she said, adding that solidarity with global struggles like Palestine remains integral to student politics.

On the other hand, Vikas Patel, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) candidate, hit out at what he termed “five decades of Left monopoly” on the campus. “The Left talks of democracy but silences others. JNU needs a change, a politics of development, debate and accountability,” Patel said, drawing loud cheers from ABVP supporters.

Representing the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), Vikash Bishnoi argued that both the Left and Right had “ignored the real concerns of students.” He pledged to focus on research facilities, library access and hostel safety. “Students want better opportunities, not just ideological slogans,” he said.

Progressive Students’ Association (PSA) candidate Shinde Vijayalaxmi Vyankant Rao made headlines after tearing a copy of the Chief Proctor’s manual on stage, calling it “a symbol of surveillance and control.” She demanded justice for students facing disciplinary action and called for eco-friendly reforms on the campus.

Issues of fellowship delays, women’s safety, Dalit representation and mental health support dominated much of the debate, alongside discussions on India’s broader political climate.

With the JNUSU elections scheduled for November 4 and results expected on November 6, Sunday’s debate set the tone for a keenly watched contest that continues to mirror the ideological divisions of Indian student politics.

“JNU debates are not just about votes, they’re about vision,” said Aamika Gupta, a postgraduate student in Sociology, who attended the event. “Every year, it feels like a mini parliament of ideas.”