Students at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) in Hyderabad have been protesting for the restoration of student union elections. The protest, which began on January 27, continued on January 28. According to the students, the university administration has not taken any concrete steps to hold student elections for the past one and a half years.
The protest was initially called on January 26. Shortly afterward, the university administration issued notices warning students not to participate. Despite this, students began a peaceful demonstration at the designated venue. During the day, they hold sit-ins on the Central Park Road, and at night near the administrative building. As part of the protest, students perform prayers and peacefully raise their demands through soft slogans, poems, and songs.
Rashid Abbasi, a master’s student, said that 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 administration 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 that they also support the student union but are taking time to maintain the “peaceful environment” on campus. Students questioned the meaning of “peaceful environment” and made it clear that the protest will continue until elections are formally scheduled in writing.
Protesting students emphasized 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.
