Students Union elections and money culture

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:05:29 +0000

⁣Student union elections in several institutions across Arunachal Pradesh have increasingly become large-scale events, often marked by concerts, parties, and daily lunch or dinner programmes during the campaign period. While such activities generate excitement and participation among students, they have also led to discussions about the growing amount of money being spent during campus elections.

At the same time, concerns continue to surface regarding the condition of some government educational institutions. In a few colleges, students have raised issues about inadequate food supply in hostels, damaged infrastructure, and poorly maintained washrooms. These concerns highlight the need for greater attention towards improving basic facilities that directly affect the daily lives and well-being of students.

The rising cost of student election campaigns also raises an important question about inclusivity in leadership. When elections involve significant expenditure, aspiring leaders who may have strong motivation, sincere intentions, and a genuine commitment to address student grievances may find it difficult to compete without financial backing.

Another concern being discussed is about priorities after the election. If a candidate spends substantial resources during the campaign—organizing concerts, parties, and other events—questions may arise about what their primary focus will be after getting elected. Would the priority remain on serving the student community and addressing institutional issues, or could there be pressure to recover the money spent during the campaign? If attempts are made to recover such expenses, observers wonder how this might affect transparency, fairness, and the overall purpose of student leadership.

As student politics plays an important role in shaping future leaders, many believe that elections centered on ideas, accountability, and service—rather than financial power—can help create a more inclusive and meaningful democratic culture within campuses.