THE RELATIONSHIP OF STUDENTS AND POLITICS

Studies and politics are diametrically opposite attributes. A student is expected to commit his time and attention to education, rather than involving himself in the rough and tumble life of politics. However, as politics pervades all aspect of our life, it would just not be possible, as well as advisable to insulate students from it.

The youth of today have many ideals and aspirations, that can only take shape when they get exposed to politics. The students of today are the future citizens of tomorrow, debarring them from politics would kill their political awakening, leading to serious consequences for the country. It is therefore desirable that they learn the nitty-gritty of politics in their student life. This would make them more politically mature, for they would be the intelligentsia of the country in the future.

History is witness to great revolutions in different parts of the world, that have been spearheaded by the students and the youth. In India too, they played a stellar role during the struggle for independence from the British empire. Most of the freedom fighters were students who subsequently became great political leaders. Their involvement in politics is not new for us. It existed thousands of years ago, when the princes were taught Rajniti, as a part of their curriculum. We know of the Pandavas and the Kauravas being taught politics by Guru Dronacharya, when they went to his ashram. The difference today however is, they assimilate politics from their surroundings, and are therefore more prone to be lead astray.

The participation of students in politics is essential, for they are an important part of our society. Depriving them of their political rights would tantamount to stunting their development, that would in turn be disastrous to the society. They are the future leaders of the country, and hence should be given the space to voice their opinions in all matters concerning them and the nation. It is however unfortunate to see them being increasingly subjugated by political parties for their own selfish interest. They are exploited by the political parties, and are called upon to participate in strikes and bundhs. Student leaders hold the prospects and future of thousands of students to ransom by disrupting studies at the behest of their political masters. This is a very a dangerous sign, for their impressionable minds can be easily manipulated.

The politicians should realise that politics and party politics are two entirely different things. They should resist from exploiting the young blood for doing their dirty work. This portends a great danger for the future of the country, and all political parties can help in curbing the menace before it assumes alarming proportions. The students should therefore take part in politics, which is distinct from party politics. Their politics should be confined to the realm of education, or the affairs of the youth. The political parties should also behave responsibly, and not involve students in their dirty party politics Thie right exposure would make them responsible citizens of this country which has great expectations from them.

Richa Singh is a student pursuing Economics from Jamia Millia Islamia.

Edited by: Nuzhat Khan

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of The Jamia Review or its members.