Controversy breaks out after Savarkar portrait installed at JNUSU office

Speaking at the event, Meena said, “Veer Savarkar was not only a courageous freedom fighter but also a visionary thinker who played a crucial role in shaping the idea of modern India… JNU should be known for its commitment to national interest and patriotism — not for anti-national activities.”

He added that the installation marked a significant ideological shift in the students’ union. “It is only after the election of a representative from ABVP to the students’ union that this recognition has become possible. We will continue this tradition,” Meena said.

The move, however, drew immediate criticism from the JNUSU leadership, who accused the ABVP leader of violating established democratic procedures.

In a statement jointly issued by JNUSU president Nitish Kumar and General Secretary Munteha, the union said: “It has come to our notice that portraits are being installed in the JNUSU Office without prior consultation in the Council meeting. A portrait in the JNUSU Office can’t be installed without a resolution being passed from the council meeting which has long been a convention.”

The union further directed that “all organisations and individuals refrain from installing any portrait or photos without their resolution being passed in a council meeting.”

The controversy reflects a broader trend across central universities, where the legacy of Savarkar has become a recurring point of contention. From Delhi University to Banaras Hindu University, his portraits and academic references have sparked debates between student groups and faculty over ideological representation, historical interpretation, and procedural legitimacy.