ABVP Triumphs in Hyderabad University Elections, Ending Seven-Year Drought
In a significant political shift, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has emerged victorious in the University of Hyderabad (UoH) student union elections, marking its first win in seven years. This victory, achieved on September 19, 2025, has not only revitalized the ABVP’s presence on campus but also reflects broader trends in student politics across India.
A Historic Win
The ABVP, affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and closely linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), secured all six key positions in the student union: president, vice-president, general secretary, joint secretary, cultural secretary, and sports secretary. This clean sweep is reminiscent of their last major victory in the 2018-19 elections, when they, along with allies, dominated the student body.
The elections saw a robust turnout, with over 81% of the student body participating. A total of 169 candidates contested, representing various political factions, including the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), among others. The high voter engagement underscores the importance of these elections in shaping campus dynamics and student representation.
Political Context
The ABVP’s victory comes at a time when student politics in India is increasingly polarized. The organization has positioned itself as a champion of nationalist ideology, appealing to a younger demographic that is often disillusioned with traditional political narratives. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, celebrated the win, stating, “Gen Z of UoH is with ABVP. This clean sweep reflects the trust Gen Z at UoH has placed in nationalist ideology.”
This sentiment resonates with a broader trend observed in various universities across India, where right-leaning student organizations have gained traction. The ABVP’s success in Hyderabad follows similar victories in institutions like Delhi University and Punjab University, suggesting a potential shift in the political landscape among Indian youth.
The Winning Candidates
The newly elected leaders represent a diverse array of academic backgrounds and aspirations. Siva Palepu, a PhD scholar, has been elected president, while Debendra will serve as vice-president. Shruti Priya has taken on the role of general secretary, with Saurabh Shukla as joint secretary. Venus has been appointed cultural secretary, and Jwala will oversee sports activities. Their election signifies a collective commitment to addressing student concerns and fostering a sense of community on campus.
Student Sentiment and Future Implications
The ABVP’s Greater Hyderabad unit has framed this victory as a mandate against “divisive politics,” emphasizing their commitment to campus peace and student welfare. They assert that their efforts in promoting unity and addressing pressing student issues have resonated with the electorate, making this win a landmark moment in UoH’s history.
However, the implications of this victory extend beyond the university. The ABVP’s resurgence may signal a shift in student engagement and political activism, particularly among younger voters. As political ideologies continue to evolve, the ABVP’s ability to maintain this momentum will be crucial in shaping future elections.
Conclusion
The ABVP’s sweeping victory in the University of Hyderabad student union elections marks a pivotal moment in Indian student politics. With a strong mandate from the student body, the newly elected leaders face the challenge of translating their electoral success into meaningful action on campus. As political dynamics continue to shift, the ABVP’s performance in the coming months will be closely watched, not only within the university but also as a reflection of broader trends in youth engagement across India.
