Understanding the Current State of Student Unions in India
Today, student unions in India are often influenced by rejected political parties, particularly the Congress and Communists, who are struggling for their own survival. These parties use student unions to fund and manipulate student careers, a practice that has been met with significant backlash from the electorate. This manipulation has altered the dynamics of student political involvement, shifting from active engagement to purely political interests.
Past and Present: From Active to Competitive Politics
Historically, student leaders played a more active role in politics. Prominent figures like Laloo Prasad Yadav, Nitish Kumar, Sushil Modi, Mulayam Singh Yadav, and Ashok Gahlot were all once student leaders. However, with the rise of competitive and costly elections, the role of student leaders has shifted. They now aim to maximize the political capital of students, while politicians exploit this by aligning with student unions to gain support.
Rising Stars from Student Unions
Despite the reluctance of many office bearers to directly engage in political processes at the state or national level, some do rise to significant positions. Arun Jaitley serves as an outstanding example of success in today's political arena. Additionally, Alka Lamba and Ajay Maken are notable student leaders who have moved to the national stage. Through their involvement in student unions, these individuals have learned crucial leadership skills such as articulating demands, negotiating, and managing their followers effectively.
These skills are essential as student leaders transition into different aspects of life. For instance, when Kanhaiya from JNU became a national figure, he demonstrated the potential for student leaders to evolve into serious political players. However, this journey often comes at a cost, including hard work, sacrifices, and even setting aside educational pursuits and family ties to focus on political ambitions.
The 1968 Student Movement in France
A historical reference to the 1968 student movement in France provides further context. The New Left movement, which opposed corruption in public life and was disenchanted with the policies of socialists and communists, successfully brought about significant political change. This movement serves as a powerful example of how student activism can influence and shape political scenarios.
It is important to acknowledge that for student leaders to become valuable contributors to national politics, they must be prepared to make significant sacrifices. This includes leaving behind stable academic careers and facing challenges like alienation from their families. However, the skills and experiences gained through their involvement in student unions can be instrumental in their future political endeavors.
Conclusion
The evolution of student unions in India reflects a shift from active political engagement to more strategic and competitive use of student voices. While the dynamics have changed, the potential for student leaders to significantly impact the political landscape remains. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for both students and policymakers in shaping a more informed and engaged political future.