Delhi, India : In a significant display of student participation and political awareness, the National Students’ Union of India organised a large marathon titled “Run for Campus Democracy” at Delhi University in Delhi. The event was held as part of a week long programme leading up to April 9, which marks the Foundation Day of the organisation. Thousands of students reportedly participated in the marathon, turning the university campus into a space of political expression and democratic assertion.
The marathon was organised under the leadership of Vinod Jakhar, National President of the National Students’ Union of India. Speaking during the event, he stated that the purpose of the seven day programme was to raise awareness about what the organisation believes are growing threats to constitutional values and freedom of expression in the country and on university campuses.
According to Vinod Jakhar, the marathon was not merely a sporting event but a symbolic movement meant to highlight the concerns of students whose voices, he claimed, are increasingly being suppressed within Delhi University. He stated that universities are spaces meant for free thinking, debate, and expression, and any attempt to silence student voices goes against the spirit of democracy and the Constitution.
He emphasized that the marathon had only one goal, which was to protect campus democracy and ensure that student voices are heard and respected. Participants ran across parts of the Delhi University campus carrying banners and raising slogans related to student rights, democracy, and freedom of expression.
The National Students’ Union of India, which was established on April 9, 1971, observes its Foundation Day every year with various programmes across the country, including marches, seminars, discussions, and student engagement activities. This year, the organisation planned a seven day programme focusing on constitutional awareness, student rights, and campus democracy, with the marathon being one of the major events.
The event witnessed participation from students across different colleges of Delhi University, reflecting growing student engagement in campus issues and democratic processes. The organisers stated that the purpose of the run was also to unite students and remind them of the importance of democratic participation within educational institutions.
During the event, student leaders also spoke about issues such as student representation, campus governance, freedom of speech, and the role of student unions in maintaining democratic values within universities. They stated that student unions play a crucial role in representing student concerns and ensuring accountability in university administration.
The “Run for Campus Democracy” marathon was presented as a symbolic movement to defend student rights, democratic participation, and freedom of expression within university campuses. The organisers described it as not just a run, but a message that students are aware, active, and ready to stand for their rights and democratic values.
As the Foundation Day on April 9 approaches, more programmes, discussions, and student activities are expected to be organised as part of the week long campaign focusing on democracy, constitutional values, and student participation in campus governance.
