RSS Yuva Kumbh at JNU prompts campus dispute over youth nation-building and university norms

An RSS-organised Yuva Kumbh at the JNU Convention Centre drew mixed reactions. Organisers described the youth conclave, held during the Sangh centenary year, as a nation-building platform featuring cultural performances. The JNU Students’ Union alleged an ideological effort to influence academic spaces and said the event violated university norms. India Foundation chairman Ram Madhav delivered the keynote.

An RSS-organised youth conclave at the JNU Convention Centre on Wednesday drew strong reactions on campus. Organisers described the Yuva Kumbh as a forum for nation-building and youth engagement. The JNU Students Union challenged the event’s purpose and the use of university facilities. Protests also took place near the venue during the programme.

The programme was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru University JNU Convention Centre as part of the Sangh’s centenary year celebrations. It followed the theme of 100 Years of Service and Dedication, and the Role of Youth in Nation-Building. Organisers said hundreds of students attended. They also said cultural performances highlighted Indian traditions during the event.

Yuva Kumbh event at JNU Convention Centre faces JNUSU objections

JNUSU opposed the conclave and called it an assault on the university’s ethos. The student body questioned how the Convention Centre was booked for the programme. In a statement, JNUSU 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 student union also linked the event to what it described as ideological influence in academic spaces. JNUSU criticised the participation of Ram Madhav and raised concerns about the message of the programme. \"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.\"

Yuva Kumbh organisers cite nationalism and public service themes

India Foundation chairman Ram Madhav delivered the keynote address at the conclave. Ram Madhav spoke about youth involvement in nation-building. Ram Madhav also cited the Sangh’s work over the last 100 years. \"Youth power is the foundation upon which India will build its glory; the Sanghs centenary year serves as a celebration of this very resolve, he asserted.\"

Organisers said the programme ended without being halted, even with protests outside. They claimed some groups tried to disrupt the event. Organisers also said the gathering showed rising student interest in discussions on nationalism and public service. They alleged leftist elements caused disturbances and demanded action by the university administration.

JNUSU members and other students continued protests near the venue during the programme. The sharp divide stayed visible through competing claims about rules and intent. Organisers presented the event as a student-focused platform under a centenary theme. JNUSU maintained that the booking and messaging raised concerns for campus norms.

With inputs from PTI