‘Give change a chance’: ABVP candidate promises to fix ‘crumbling infrastructure’ of JNU

As soon as the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-backed Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) comes to power in the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU), the foundation stones for all six pre-approved hostels will be laid to better facilitate student needs, said ABVP’s presidential candidate, Shikha Swaraj.

In a conversation with Patriot, Swaraj discussed a range of pressing issues ahead of the JNUSU polls, including the need for clean drinking water facilities, crumbling campus infrastructure, and more.

What prompted you to enter the JNU elections as ABVP’s presidential candidate?

I have been a dedicated worker of the ABVP since I began my studies at JNU. After a thorough evaluation of my work and contributions, the ABVP chose me to contest the elections. Contesting elections has always been secondary for me — but if I do, it will only be with the ABVP. I completed my Master’s at JNU itself and have been actively involved in various welfare initiatives for the students here.

How do you intend to balance JNU’s diverse student community with ABVP’s ideological stance?

ABVP’s ideology is straightforward and student-centric. One of our key demands is that 10% of the national budget be allocated to education. We believe in strengthening the student-professor relationship and creating an environment where students can truly flourish. ABVP is committed to the welfare of JNU students and aims to foster a holistic and inclusive atmosphere on campus.

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We advocate for a peaceful and conducive environment for academic and personal growth. ABVP has been working towards these goals since its inception.

How do you respond to allegations that ABVP’s presence leads to campus polarisation?

The claims of polarisation are narratives created by left-wing groups like AISA, SFI, and others. In our view, these groups have not contributed meaningfully to student welfare and often rely on fear-based messaging to maintain their hold on campus politics. In contrast, ABVP is focused on real work — creating opportunities, addressing student issues, and ensuring the overall welfare of the student community. Our commitment is to development, not division.

What is your approach to ensuring academic freedom and free speech at JNU?

I firmly believe in the importance of freedom of speech. A true culture of free expression must be promoted across the campus. In JNU, for a long time, only a single narrative and ideology dominated. When alternative views started gaining space, they were wrongly labelled as promoting “dictatorship.” True free speech means creating an open platform where diverse opinions can be expressed, and where individuals agree to disagree with mutual respect. My vision is to ensure that every student, regardless of ideology, has the right to speak, debate, and be heard.

What, in your view, are the top three issues currently affecting JNU students?

First, crumbling infrastructure is a major concern — from hostels to academic buildings, there is a clear need for urgent repair and upgrades. Second, the lack of basic facilities, such as clean water and proper sanitation, directly affect students’ daily lives and academic performance. Third, ensuring that students’ grievances are addressed quickly and effectively is crucial. I am committed to working on these issues at the ground level if elected, to make sure every student at JNU feels heard and supported.

What steps will you take to resolve the ongoing hostel crisis?

The situation is serious — even the newly constructed hostels are not being allotted to students, and the infrastructure of existing hostels is crumbling. Our priority will be to push for immediate action. At the very least, we will work to lay the foundation stones for the six new hostels that have already been approved. Unfortunately, the current left-wing-led student associations have completely failed in this regard — they didn’t even make an effort to engage with the administration to start the construction process.

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Their negligence has deeply affected students, and we are committed to correcting that by actively pursuing these projects and ensuring students’ needs are not ignored.

What would you say to students who are disillusioned or hesitant to vote this year?

I understand why many students, especially first-years, are disillusioned. They have witnessed broken promises and ineffective leadership from the current parties at JNU. There was a time when the JNU Students’ Union was strong enough to make the entire nation hear our voice. Today, under left-wing leadership, that strength has faded — even basic issues like reopening mess facilities and holding mess talks are being neglected, and the administration no longer takes the Union seriously.

Also Read: Broken promises and crumbling buildings: JNU students voice grievances ahead of union elections

I urge students to give the right wing a chance for real change. Let us show that JNU’s voice can once again be strong and respected. If we fail to meet your expectations, you have every right not to support us in the next election. Hold us accountable — but first, give change a chance.

Do you believe ABVP is poised to win? What makes you confident?

Yes, I believe ABVP has a very strong chance of winning all four central seats at JNU this time. The left-wing groups are deeply divided among themselves, and students are frustrated with their lack of leadership and real work. Meanwhile, ABVP has been consistently engaging with students, addressing ground-level issues, and offering a clear vision for change. This growing trust among students gives us a solid edge in the upcoming elections.