New Delhi, March 26: In a groundbreaking victory, Dhananjay, a PhD student from the School of Arts and Aesthetics, has been elected Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union (JNUSU) president, marking the first time in nearly three decades that a Dalit leader has held this esteemed position within the Left-backed groups. Dhananjay, who belongs to the All India Students Association (AISA), secured a resounding win with 2,598 votes out of a total of 5,656, triumphing over his closest rival, Umesh Chandra Ajmeera of the RSS-affiliated ABVP, by a margin of 922 votes.
The victory of Dhananjay, hailing from Gaya in Bihar, underscores a significant shift in JNU’s political landscape.
Addressing his plans for the union, Dhananjay outlined key agendas aimed at advancing student welfare and addressing pressing issues within the campus. These include advocating for an increase in stipend amounts for fellowships, enhancing campus infrastructure, and promoting fair and diverse faculty appointments.
Furthermore, Dhananjay is committed to combating propaganda aimed at tarnishing JNU’s reputation. He expressed concern over certain elements spreading misinformation and negative portrayals of the campus, particularly through films, and pledged to raise his voice against such endeavors.
Dhananjay’s journey to leadership has been marked by resilience in the face of adversity. Born into a family of economic hardship, he confronted caste discrimination firsthand. His father, a retired policeman, faced prejudice from villagers who refused to address him with due respect, solely based on his caste identity. Despite these challenges, Dhananjay’s determination to pursue education as a means to combat discrimination has been unwavering.
Reflecting on his upbringing and the obstacles he has overcome, Dhananjay’s victory resonates as a testament to his commitment to social justice and equitable representation. As he embarks on his tenure as JNUSU president, Dhananjay stands as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities and a catalyst for positive change within the university landscape.
