The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) has demanded a thorough investigation into allegations that students were compelled to participate in the Jana Ashirwad Yatra organised by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The student body raised the issue after reports surfaced claiming that students of Sati Sadhani University in Golaghat district were allegedly pressured to attend a rally held as part of the BJP’s political campaign. According to the allegations circulating on social media, students were warned that they would be marked absent for three days if they refused to stand in line and take part in the programme.
Reacting to the claims, AASU president Utpal Sarma said participation in any political event cannot be forced upon students. He stressed that the Ashirwad Yatra is a party programme and educational institutions should not compel students to participate in political activities.
Sarma further alleged that attempts are being made to turn educational institutions into “political laboratories” to appease those in power. He urged the authorities concerned to conduct a proper inquiry and take strict action against those responsible if the allegations are found to be true.
The student organisation also stated that forcing students to attend political programmes undermines the neutrality and integrity of educational institutions.
The Ashirwad Yatra, led by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is currently being organised across several districts of the state as part of the BJP’s political outreach activities.
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