The 2025 Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections delivered a split outcome, with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) dominating three of the top four positions. However, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) carved out a significant victory with Rahul Jhansla securing the Vice President’s post. Jhansla clinched a notable win, garnering 29,339 votes and surpassing ABVP’s Govind Tanwar, who received 20,547 votes. This triumph has not only revitalized NSUI’s presence on campus but also spotlighted Jhansla’s remarkable journey as a student leader deeply committed to his educational foundation.
From Rajasthan to Delhi: Rahul Jhansla’s Academic Journey
Rahul Jhansla’s roots trace back to Dahmi village in Behror, Alwar district, Rajasthan. Growing up in a family immersed in grassroots politics—his aunt notably served as a sarpanch—he was exposed early to discussions about governance and public service. This upbringing undeniably fueled his initial drive towards leadership and community engagement.
He completed his undergraduate degree at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College, Delhi University, a campus renowned for its lively academic and political atmosphere. After graduating, Jhansla pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) at Delhi University, where he is currently in his second year. His decision to study law underscores a purposeful move to grasp the intricacies of governance, justice, and institutional structures, perfectly aligning with his burgeoning political aspirations.
Championing Student Welfare: A History of Campus Activism
Long before his DUSU candidacy, Jhansla had already established himself within Delhi University through various protests and campaigns addressing critical student issues. He actively led movements advocating for enhanced hostel sanitation, superior sports facilities, and greater transparency in campus administration. His dedication was particularly evident when he undertook hunger strikes to champion student rights, showcasing his commitment to using impactful yet democratic methods to bring attention to pressing concerns.
Jhansla’s 2025 election manifesto prominently featured student welfare initiatives. Key promises included a rejection of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, advocating for menstrual leave for female students, ensuring transparent examination processes, providing more scholarships, and creating safer environments for women on campus. His visionary proposals for smart classrooms, accessible legal aid centers, and upgraded transportation resonated strongly with students eager for practical and meaningful improvements.
The Synergy of Law and Leadership
A defining characteristic of Rahul Jhansla’s presence in Delhi University politics is his unique ability to seamlessly integrate rigorous academic study with fervent activism. By pursuing a law degree concurrently with his active role in student politics, he embodies a powerful blend of theoretical comprehension and hands-on leadership. This potent combination of legal expertise and organizational experience offers a compelling blueprint for many aspiring student leaders, paving the way for influential careers in mainstream politics, public policy, or various advocacy fields.
NSUI’s Strategic Gain: The Impact of Jhansla’s Victory
While securing only one position, Jhansla’s triumph holds immense strategic importance for the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), which has consistently faced challenges against the long-standing dominance of the ABVP. His inclusion in the DUSU leadership guarantees that the Congress’s student arm retains a vital platform to influence campus discussions and policy. Furthermore, his strong academic background lends significant credibility to his engagement in crucial debates concerning student rights, educational reforms, and fostering a more inclusive university environment.