New Delhi, October 26 (TNA) Jamia Millia Islamia has decided to hold elections for its students’ union after a gap of nearly two decades, following sustained protests on the university campus demanding the restoration of the elected body.
An administrative order issued on Monday said the elections to the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union would be conducted within 15 days of the approval of the union’s constitution.
Protests Prompt Decision
The decision came after students staged protests, including a hunger strike, calling for democratic representation on campus. The university’s students’ union has remained inactive since 2006, when the administration dissolved the elected body.
The last union elections were held in 2005. The administration dissolved the body on March 31, 2006, citing allegations of campus violence, disruption and interference in administrative affairs.
Constitution to Set Poll Process
The university has formed a committee to prepare a constitution for the students’ union. The proposed elections will be held within 15 days after the constitution receives approval, according to the administrative order.
However, some protesting students have raised concerns that the order does not specify a deadline for approving the constitution. They said the poll assurance would remain incomplete unless the administration clearly sets a timeline for the constitution’s approval.
Mixed Response From Students
The administration has urged students to end their agitation following the announcement. The order reportedly also revokes suspension orders and show-cause notices issued against students during the protests and provides for an inquiry into the conduct of security personnel during the agitation.
The move marks a significant step toward restoring elected student representation at Jamia. The next focus is expected to be the approval of the union constitution and the administration’s adherence to the 15-day election schedule.