Mumbai, Maharashtra – The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), a premier institution for social sciences in India, finds itself embroiled in controversy as students question the absence of student union elections for the current academic year. This delay has sparked concerns about the erosion of democratic processes within the institute and raised questions about the administration’s commitment to student representation.
A History of Student Activism
TISS has a rich history of student activism, with its student union playing a crucial role in advocating for student rights and welfare. The union has also served as a platform for students to engage in discussions on social and political issues, contributing to the institute’s vibrant intellectual atmosphere. However, the current situation has left students feeling disenfranchised and unheard.
The Missing Elections
The last student union elections at TISS were held in August 2023, with the ASA-MSF alliance, a coalition of the Ambedkarite Students’ Association and the Muslim Students Federation, winning a majority of the seats. The elected body served its term until April 2024, when the administration abruptly suspended the union, citing “activities that were not in the interest of the nation.” This suspension followed the participation of a TISS student leader in a Parliament march organized by student groups from across the country.
Despite the passage of several months and the start of a new academic year, the administration has yet to conduct fresh elections, leaving the student body without an official representative voice. This delay has fueled speculation among students, with many alleging that the administration is deliberately avoiding elections to stifle dissent and maintain control over student affairs.
Students Speak Out
Students at TISS have expressed their frustration and disappointment over the absence of a student union. They argue that the union is an essential platform for them to voice their concerns and participate in the decision-making processes that affect their academic and campus life.
“The absence of elections is a major issue,” said a student who wished to remain anonymous. “The student union is meant to be a democratic platform where students can be represented and their concerns addressed – whether on administrative or academic 1 matters.”
Another student added, “We have repeatedly inquired about the elections, but the administration has remained silent. It seems they are trying to bypass elections altogether, claiming there is no mandate for them.”
Students have also raised concerns about the funds collected for the student union. “The administration collects a mandatory fee from each student for the student union fund,” said a student representative. “If there is no union, where is this money going? There is no transparency or accountability regarding how these funds are being managed.”
The Administration’s Response
The TISS administration has remained largely silent on the issue, declining to comment on the reasons for the delay in conducting elections. This lack of communication has further aggravated the situation, leaving students feeling ignored and marginalized.
The Way Forward
The students of TISS are now demanding answers from the administration. They are calling for immediate elections to restore the student union and ensure that their voices are heard. Several student organizations have also issued statements condemning the administration’s inaction and demanding transparency in the management of student funds.
The future of student representation at TISS hangs in the balance. The administration’s response to the students’ demands will determine whether the institute can uphold its commitment to democratic values and foster a healthy environment for student participation and engagement.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected in the coming days.
