Why Are Student Union Elections Continued in Colleges Despite Ongoing Riots?

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In recent times, the topic of student union elections has become a contentious issue, with many calling for a complete halt to such activities on college campuses during periods of unrest. However, despite numerous incidents of violence and civil unrest across educational institutions, universities continue to hold these elections. This article explores the reasoning behind this persistence and raises important questions about the balance between democratic processes and campus safety.

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Context of Campus Protest and Political Activism

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The recent wave of student protests against the Citizens' Amendment Act (CAA) law has garnered significant attention from both supporters and opponents. This legislation has sparked widespread debate and protests in India, with student unions playing a pivotal role in organizing and mobilizing activism. Politicians and critics argue that these protests have been orchestrated to block India's rise as a regional superpower, while others argue that the protests were initially a peaceful response to discriminatory policies.

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Motives of Politicians Behind Continued Elections

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The motivations of political leaders behind the continuation of student union elections are multifaceted. Firstly, politicians recognize the power of student unions in shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions. By allowing these unions to hold elections, they ensure that student voices remain active in the political discourse, even if they might support controversial laws such as the CAA.

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Furthermore, political leaders use student unions as a proxy for extending their influence and control. Despite not directly engaging in the protests or political activism, they capitalize on the energy and support of student leaders to reinforce their own political agendas. This dual strategy enables them to maintain a foothold in the student community without being exposed to public criticism for their involvement in contentious issues.

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Arguments for Halting Student Union Elections

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Critics of the continued student union elections argue that these processes are not conducive to a peaceful and safe learning environment. Ongoing riots and protests create an atmosphere of instability and fear, which can have detrimental effects on the academic and personal lives of students. They also point out that allowing elections during these tumultuous times can distract from the core purposes of higher education, which should focus on learning, research, and intellectual growth.

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Alternatives to Student Union Elections

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Suggestions for alternative methods to channel student activism and democratic processes without compromising campus safety include:

r r Virtual Elections: Running student union elections online can reduce the risk of physical conflicts and ensure that the process remains safe and accessible to all students.r Peaceful Protests and Petitions: Encouraging students to participate in non-violent forms of protest, such as peaceful demonstrations, letters to policymakers, and symbolic actions, can effectively voice their concerns without endangering the community.r Registering Student Unions as NGOs: Formalizing student unions as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) can provide them with a legal and structured platform to advocate for their rights and concerns while abiding by official guidelines and regulations.r r r

Conclusion

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The issue of continuing student union elections during periods of unrest highlights the complex interplay between democratic processes and campus safety. While student activism is vital for a vibrant and healthy society, the safety and well-being of students must be prioritized. Universities and educational institutions must find ways to facilitate democratic engagement that does not compromise the stability and safety of the campus environment.