Students at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) in Hyderabad have been protesting for the restoration of student union elections. The protest began on January 27 and continued on January 28. Students say the university administration has not taken any concrete steps to hold elections for the past one and a half years.
The protest was first called on January 26. Soon after, the university administration issued notices warning students against participating. Despite this, students began a peaceful demonstration at the designated venue. During the day, they hold sit-ins on Central Park Road, and at night near the administrative building. As part of the protest, students perform prayers and express their demands through soft slogans, poems, and songs.
Rashid Abbasi, a master’s student, said the administration has not conducted student union elections for the past one and a half years. He added that despite submitting multiple representations and memorandums, the university has not provided any concrete response.
Student leader Abu Talha stated that the administration’s warning has only strengthened the students’ resolve. “Student union elections are our democratic right, and this platform is crucial for raising student issues,” he said.
On the second day of the protest, a delegation from the university administration met with the students. The administration assured them that it supports the student union but is taking time to maintain a “peaceful environment” on campus. Students questioned what the administration meant by “peaceful environment” and said the protest will continue until elections are formally scheduled in writing.
Protesting students said that their movement is entirely peaceful and democratic. Their aim is to strengthen student representation and promote dialogue within the university. They urged the administration to take prompt action to restore student union elections, ensuring transparency, participation, and student welfare.
