Left split shakes up JNU student polls; ABVP eyes opportunity

Polling for the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) elections took place amid chants, drums, and fervent canvassing. Known as a Left stronghold, JNU is witnessing an unusual political scenario this year as two major Left student groups — the All India Students' Association (AISA) and the Students' Federation of India (SFI) — are up against each other.

AISA has allied with the Democratic Students’ Federation (DSF), while SFI has joined hands with BAPSA, AISF, and PSA. This internal split in the Left front is raising questions about whether the right-wing ABVP could capitalise on the vote division.

Also read: Slogans, songs, solidarity: Presidential debate sets JNU abuzz ahead of polls

Results are expected on April 28, but the buzz around campus indicates a tough contest ahead.

Changing alliances

The Left unity, often credited with dominant wins at JNU, seems to be strained this time. Candidates from both AISA and SFI alliances claim to be carrying forward the “struggle politics” but disagree on representation and strategy.

“We have great chances,” said a student leader from the Left-Ambedkarite Unity panel. “This is an alliance of struggle. From protests for Barak Hostel to election demands, we’ve been united. We’re confident of defeating the ABVP.”

SFI supporters argue that their coalition has worked on student issues and stands strong with Ambedkarite forces. On the other hand, ABVP believes that this disunity is a golden opportunity.

ABVP eyes advantage

An ABVP member said, “This time, the Left is divided. Our presidential candidate Shikha Swaraj has a strong chance. She has worked on real issues — MCM scholarships, and hostel problems, especially for girls. Everyone on campus knows her work.”

The right-affiliated group sees the rift in Left factions as their best chance to claim victory in years. Whether this optimism turns into votes remains to be seen.

Voters weigh options

Many students appear undecided. While some are voting along ideological lines, others are focusing on local, centre-specific issues.

“This time I’m voting for someone who’s standing for student issues,” said one voter. “Campus politics often drifts from real problems to petty factionalism. We need a united student movement again.”

Also read: JNU students' union polls: Election panel halts process, seeks police protection

Another student said, “These elections are about more than campus. They reflect the national atmosphere too. So we’ll vote for those who have stood for our rights.”

What next?

Counting of votes will begin on Saturday night, but since the election uses paper ballots, final results are expected on Monday (April 28). The fractured alliances and identity politics at play could result in surprising outcomes.

Will ABVP make history in a traditionally Left-dominated space? Or will fragmented Left groups still manage to retain control through strategic alliances?

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