In 2026, students at two prominent central universities, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), have reignited demands for the restoration of elected student unions which have been suspended for years. Unlike the universities of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University where student union elections continue regularly, these minority institutions have seen no student body elections for more than a decade. The student movements at AMU and JMI have been driven by increased tuition fees, poor campus facilities, and a broader demand for student democratic representation.
Student Protests and Struggles at AMU
AMU students have protested repeatedly since 2024 against tuition fee hikes, poor hostel food quality, outdated infrastructure, and the absence of student elections. Despite earlier demonstrations in 2024 and 2025, including sit-ins and blockades, university and police actions suppressed the protests, including disciplinary measures against activists. In 2026, a mass protest followed revelations of unhygienic hostel food, escalating to an indefinite hunger strike by postgraduate student Yasir Fahad of the Students Islamic Organisation. The intensity and organisation of this protest led to university concessions, including replacing the proctor and announcing student union elections to be held on 5 November 2026.
Jamia Millia Islamia Students Rally Inspired by AMU
Following AMU’s breakthrough, JMI students initiated protests demanding restoration of the Jamia Millia Islamia Students’ Union (JMISU), which has been defunct since 2006. Several students began an indefinite hunger strike in October 2026, escalating the agitation. The university responded by forming a five-member committee to draft election rules by 20 December 2026, but the lack of student representation on the committee and the extended timeline have caused skepticism among students. The students continue protests demanding firm election dates and fears remain that nominations might replace direct elections, despite the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations emphasizing student electoral rights.
The Broader Significance
The protests at AMU and JMI highlight a struggle for democratic student representation in minority institutions where student political expression has historically been important. The delay in restoring elected unions underscores challenges faced under current political climates. Successful restoration at AMU offers hope and inspiration for JMI and similar universities nationwide. Students emphasize their right to organise, represent, and lead as a fundamental part of campus life and community political engagement.
Next Steps and Outlook
AMU is set to hold student union elections on 5 November 2026 with results expected the same day, marking a significant victory for student democracy. At Jamia, the committee will prepare draft union election rules by December 2026, while students sustain their hunger strikes and protests seeking guaranteed direct elections sooner. The effectiveness of these movements could influence university governance and student political rights in other institutions across India.
