New Delhi | A 'Yuva Kumbh' or youth conclave organised by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh at the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Convention Centre on Wednesday triggered sharp reactions on campus, with organisers hailing it as a platform for nation-building while the JNU students' union alleged an ideological attempt to influence academic spaces, that also violated university norms.
The event, titled "Yuva Kumbh", was organised as part of the Sangh's centenary year celebrations, and based on the theme of "100 Years of Service and Dedication, and the Role of Youth in Nation-Building".
India Foundation chairman Ram Madhav, who delivered the keynote address, highlighted the role of youth in nation-building and listed Sangh's contribution in this regard over the past 100 years. "Youth power is the foundation upon which India will build its glory; the Sangh's centenary year serves as a celebration of this very resolve," he asserted.
According to organisers, the programme saw participation from hundreds of students and included cultural performances showcasing Indian traditions.
They claimed the event concluded successfully despite attempts by some groups to disrupt it through protests, asserting that the event reflected growing student interest in discussions around nationalism and public service.
Organisers alleged that "leftist elements" tried to create disturbances during the programme and demanded action from the university administration against those involved.
However, the JNU Students' Union (JNUSU) strongly opposed the event, terming it an "attack" on the university's ethos and raising questions over the use of campus facilities.
In a statement, the students' body said, "JNUSU has sought clarification from the administration regarding the booking of the Convention Centre.
Official guidelines prohibit political and religious organisations from using this space, yet this event has been facilitated, raising serious concerns about administrative complicity."
The students' union alleged that the event was part of a broader attempt to influence academic spaces and criticised the presence of Ram Madhav.
"The presence of Ram Madhav who has openly advocated reshaping education to serve a narrow ideological agenda further reveals the intent behind this programme," JNUSU said.
JNUSU members and other students staged a protest near the venue during the programme.
