NSUI and ABVP Chiefs Clash Over PM Modi's Delhi University Visit

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the University of Delhi and gave a speech at its centenary year closing ceremony. This visit sparked discussions among the students of the university. Two student unions, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and the National Students Union of India (NSUI), have different opinions about the Prime Minister's visit. Amit Pandey conducted interviews with the presidents of these unions to understand their perspectives.

How do you view PM Narendra Modi's recent visit to the University of Delhi?

Kunal Sehrawat: As the Prime Minister of our country, Narendra Modi is welcome at any educational institution. However, it would be better for the nation if he focused on addressing the situation in Manipur rather than engaging in photo opportunities. The Prime Minister's entire metro journey was planned in advance. All the students he interacted with were associated with the ABVP and BJP. It's ironic that after consistently criticizing Rahul Gandhi, now he (Modi) is imitating his style by traveling through the metro.

Will this event affect the upcoming Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) election?

Kunal Sehrawat: I don't believe the Prime Minister's visit will have a significant impact on the DUSU election. Delhi University (DU) is a diverse institution with students from all over the country, many of whom have experienced the BJP's governance in their respective states. As young voters, they are well-informed about the Prime Minister's political track record. The students will not be swayed by the PM's comments on momos and chai.

What are your preparations for the upcoming DUSU elections?

Kunal Sehrawat: Since the undergraduate admission process has already begun, we have launched a helpline number for DU aspirants to address their concerns. Once the admission process is completed, we will initiate a membership drive across the University. Our primary focus will be on assisting first-year students. During the upcoming election, we will campaign on issues such as the reintroduction of buses for students and metro fare concessions for them.

How do you view PM Narendra Modi's recent visit to the University of Delhi?

Akshit Dahiya: The Prime Minister's visit to the University is a moment of pride for DU and its students. In its centenary year, the university has organized various programs on campus, and it concludes with a warm welcome for the Prime Minister. The way the PM connects with the students during the metro journey and his knowledge about the popular meeting spots of DU's students reflect his understanding of youth-related issues.

Will this event affect the upcoming Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) election?

Akshit Dahiya: Associating the PM's visit with the DUSU election would not be appropriate. The PM's presence is as a chief guest for the closing ceremony of the centenary year and not for political election campaigning. Moreover, the issues involved in the DUSU election are distinct from national issues, so any comparison between the two is irrelevant.

What are your preparations for the upcoming elections?

Akshit Dahiya: Unlike other student unions, we did not start campaigning during the election season. ABVP has the largest number of members in the world, and we always support the students regardless of elections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ABVP addressed the grievances of all students who reached out to us. We will contest this year's election based on our positive work over the last four years and aim to win with a larger vote margin than in the 2019 elections. This year, we are determined to secure victory on all four seats.