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Summary:
The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) elections are underway, with the presidential debate concluding after a late start. Seven candidates are competing, representing various political platforms including a Left Unity alliance (AISA, SFI, DSF), ABVP, PSA, NSUI, BAPSA and an independent. The debate covered a wide range of issues, from national and international affairs like the Bihar electoral rolls revision and the Gaza conflict, to campus issues like the CPO manual. Candidates used the platform to criticize opponents and outline their visions for JNU. Polling will occur on Tuesday, with results expected by Thursday.
News Article:
JNUSU Presidential Debate Wraps Up, Setting Stage for Tense Election Showdown
NEW DELHI, November 4, 2025 – The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) campus is buzzing with anticipation as the JNUSU elections enter their final phase. The presidential debate, held late into Monday night, saw seven candidates vying for the top student leadership position clash over a diverse range of issues, from national politics to campus infrastructure.
The debate, a JNU tradition known for its intellectual rigor, witnessed candidates from across the political spectrum addressing topics such as the electoral roll revision in Bihar, the conflict in Gaza, and even the controversial Chief Proctor Office (CPO) manual that imposes fines on students.
Aditi Mishra, representing the Left Unity alliance of AISA, SFI, and DSF, launched a scathing attack on the RSS-affiliated ABVP, accusing them of attacking the very “idea of India.” ABVP candidate Vikas Patel countered by questioning the Left’s commitment to Dalit and women’s rights, while emphasizing his party’s focus on improving campus infrastructure.
Shinde Vijayalaxmi of the Progressive Students’ Alliance dramatically tore up a copy of the CPO manual, promising to abolish it if elected. Vikash, the NSUI candidate, challenged the traditional left-right dichotomy on campus, highlighting atrocities against Dalits under the current regime.
The Birsa Ambedkar Phule Students’ Association (BAPSA) candidate, Raj Ratan Rajoriya was absent due to a family emergency. Independent candidate Angad Singh focused on issues affecting the average student, while Shirshava Indu from Disha Students’ Organisation highlighted problems such as crumbling library ceilings and poor food quality in the mess.
Polling is scheduled for Tuesday in two sessions. The counting process will begin after, with the election results expected to be announced by Thursday. The current JNUSU central panel is split between the AISA-DSF alliance, holding three posts, and the ABVP, holding the fourth.
The elections promise a closely watched outcome that will reflect the prevailing political sentiments on the JNU campus and potentially beyond.