MERIDIAN MUN

LETTER FROM THE

EXECUTIVE BOARD
Greetings, Politicians!
We feel privileged and honored to welcome you to this simulation of the All
India Political Parties Meet at MerMUN 2024.
We hope that this simulation proves fruitful to you and you take something
valuable back from it. We also hope that by the end of the conference, you will
have a better understanding of different political views in the country, current
affairs, and various other aspects of the agenda that has been selected for this
conference and we hope that you will be willing to participate in more such
conferences.
The Executive Board has collectively designed a Background Guide for you to
start off your research process. The Background Guide will help you get
familiar with the agenda and its background but for the committee to
progress as someone who is going to enact a politician you must carry
forward external research, and as the name suggests, will provide you with
very basic and guiding insights. The Background Guide is a major resource for
you but should not provide a hindrance in your external research.
For your external research and background research on your portfolio, you are
advised to research like there's no tomorrow! This Background Guide will only
scratch the surface of the agenda that we are currently dealing with. We urge
all members of the committee to take the time to read the background guide
and use it as a starting point for their preparation. You are to come to the
conference with an open mind, ready to meet and work with new people,
actively participate in the debate in the committee, debate and argue
solutions and problems, and hopefully reach a consensus.
The Executive Board looks forward to your presence at MerMUN 2024.

Regards,
Sai Eshwar (Moderator)
Adnaan Farooqui (Deputy-Moderator)
MERIDIAN MUN

Agenda: Discussion on developing strategies to encourage and facilitate

greater involvement of youth in political processes and decision-making

INTRODUCTION:
“Anyone who says they are not interested in politics is like a drowning man
who insists he is not interested in water"
-Mahatma Gandhi

Today's youth are healthier and more dynamic than previous generations,
making them an invaluable asset to India's future. Embracing this mindset is
crucial for becoming active citizens in modern India, especially given the
nation’s projected trajectory over the coming years. To enact positive change
in our own lives and the broader community, we must envision a different
future and cultivate empathy for our future selves. The prospect of increased
youth involvement in Indian politics is an issue of keen interest both
domestically and internationally.
The significance of youth extends beyond their age; they represent a valuable
and resourceful demographic. Although governments at both the state and
central levels, along with international organizations like the United Nations
and UNFPA, have emphasized youth participation in civic engagement and
community development, their involvement remains limited, particularly in
India. As a nation with a substantial young population, India stands to benefit
immensely from increased youth participation in community development
activities.
Politics often suffers from a negative reputation, frequently associated with
undesirable practices. The spectacle of parliamentary members exchanging
barbs on national television contributes to this perception. The concept of
respectful discourse has become diluted, and adherence to the rule of law
appears to be waning. Politics is often viewed as a form of agitation,
sometimes lacking constitutional grounding. When these narratives are
amplified through various media channels, they gain substantial traction,
sometimes leading to bandhs, stone-throwing, and uncontrolled violence. The
consequences are often tragic, resulting in loss of life and property
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Effective constitutional engagement requires a deep understanding of a

country's governmental structures and socio-economic dynamics. This entails
educating the public to better comprehend their needs, promoting nonviolent
pressure on authorities, and fostering awareness of the need for change. Now a
question arises as to whether or not students should or should not engage in
constitutional protests, as this requires an understanding of the constitution
and societal conditions that they have yet to encounter, as well as a critical
appreciation of the flaws in existing systems. Students’ minds may not yet be
mature enough to navigate these complexities. In this era of enthusiasm,
youth should focus on learning and absorbing experiences, gathering
information, and conducting their own research to develop informed opinions.
While youth possess abundant energy, channeling it toward wisdom will
ultimately benefit both themselves and the nation.
Students can prepare for future political involvement but they cannot do so
entirely on their own. It is well known that entering politics often requires
muscle power, financial resources, the ability to attract a crowd, and the skill to
turn that crowd into votes. We cannot overlook the fact that even politicians
perceived as lacking intellect are ultimately elected through democratic
means, representing their constituents. Beyond electoral politics, many young
people show little interest in pursuing roles in policy-making. This committee
is tasked with addressing, analyzing, and discussing these issues to encourage
greater youth participation in political and decision-making processes in the
country.

EVOLUTION AND IMPACT OF STUDENT

MOVEMENTS AND CAMPUS POLITICS IN
INDIA:
In institutes of higher education, students frequently participate in campus
politics, with various student parties competing electorally to control the
union, which serves as the apex student body engaging with higher authorities
on student-related and academic issues. Campus politics often serve as a
breeding ground for future politicians, leading to direct intervention by larger
political parties in student affairs. Consequently, campus student parties often
act as student wings of national parties, wielding substantial resources during
elections, which can sometimes lead to conflicts and violence on campus.
Student unions play a crucial role in shaping India's future by involving youth
in the nation's progress. Since the era of Congress Party dominance, student
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unions have become integral to student politics, aligning with political parties
and engaging in student-related crises. Notable student unions include the
Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the largest in India, founded in 1948
and inspired by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), with the slogan
“Knowledge, Character & Unity.” The All India Students Federation (AISF),
founded on August 12, 1936, under Nehru's guidance, was the first student
body to support India's independence, adopting the slogan “Study and
Struggle.” The All India Democratic Students’ Organization (AIDSO),
established on December 28, 1954, and linked with the Socialist Unity Centre of
India (Communist), fights against injustice and promotes social transformation.
The Students’ Federation of India (SFI), founded in 1970, is a socialist
organization with the slogan “Independence, Democracy, and Socialism!”
advocating that education is vital to overcoming regressive ideas. The Delhi
University Students Union (DUSU) represents students from most colleges,
holding elections annually in August-September, with many former office
bearers having held public office. The Jawaharlal Nehru University Students'
Union (JNUSU) fosters a healthy political culture and open debates, informing
students through public meetings and discussions. Finally, the National
Students Union of India (NSUI) also plays a key role in student politics.

Student movements, characterized by the actions and ideas of protest groups,

have been present almost as long as universities themselves. As early as the
4th century, students protested against professors with unpopular political
views. Student activism serves as a valuable means of staying informed and
connected, enhancing communication, relationships, and critical thinking.
Rooted in a desire to break away from the conformist culture of the 1950s and
to combat social inequality and persecution faced by African Americans, the
student movement gained momentum with protests such as the first anti-
Vietnam War demonstration in 1962. However, student activism truly surged in
the mid-1960s, with significant events like the protest of 250 students in
Grosvenor Square against the Vietnam War after the American embassy in
Edinburgh. In India, student politics began in the late 1800s with the
establishment of Western-style universities and colleges. One of the earliest
documented student demonstrations was in 1905, when students at Eden
College in Calcutta (now Kolkata) protested the partition of Bengal by burning
an effigy of the then-Viceroy, Lord Curzon. Across India, students have
MERIDIAN MUN

protested against various issues, including the implementation of a 27 percent

OBC reservation in government jobs in August 1990.
Notable Student Protests in India

1. The Assam Movement (1979–1985): This was an anti-illegal migrant

movement in Assam, led by the All Assam Students Union (AASU) and All
Assam Gana Sangram Parishad (AAGSP). These groups organized protests to
urge the Indian government to identify and expel illegal immigrants, mainly
from Bangladesh, to protect native Assamese people.
2. Jallikattu Protests (2017): On January 16, 2017, over 2 million students in
Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry protested against the Supreme Court's ban on
Jallikattu, following complaints from PETA about animal cruelty. The ban,
imposed in 2014, was briefly lifted on January 20 due to these protests.
3. Anti-CAA Protests (2019): The implementation of the Citizenship
Amendment Act sparked massive protests across India, led by student groups
such as the Assam Students' Association and students from Jamia Millia and
Aligarh University. Protests at Jamia and AMU turned violent, with police firing
shots on university grounds, resulting in several student injuries. Section 144
was imposed, and internet access was shut down in several areas. The protests
resonated internationally, with over 400 students abroad expressing concern.
4. Emergency Protests (1975): During the emergency imposed before
midnight on June 25, 1975, students across the country organized widespread
protests. A notable participant was the late Arun Jaitley, then a recent law
school graduate, who led several demonstrations and was subsequently
imprisoned.
5. JNU Protest (2016): Protests erupted at Jawaharlal Nehru University over the
execution of Afzal Guru, convicted for an attack on Parliament 19 years prior.
The protests lasted four days, during which JNU Students' Union President
Kanhaiya Kumar was charged with sedition and arrested. Other students,
including Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya, were also arrested for
allegedly chanting anti-India slogans. The events led to the suspension of
several students and hefty fines for many.
6. Telangana Statehood Movement (2001–2014): The demand for a separate
Telangana state from Andhra Pradesh saw significant involvement from
student groups and youth organizations. The Telangana Student Joint Action
Committee (TSJAC) played a crucial role in mobilizing student support for the
cause. In December 2009, when the Indian government announced the
decision to create Telangana, students across the region organized mass
protests and rallies in support of the decision. The movement intensified in 2011
and 2012, with students staging demonstrations, strikes, and sit-ins to push for
the acceleration of the statehood process. The student activism was
instrumental in sustaining the momentum of the movement, which eventually
led to the formal creation of Telangana as the 29th state of India on June 2,
2014.
MERIDIAN MUN

YOUTH POLITICS AND THE RISKS TO

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT?
As can be seen from the above section, youth politics often sparks passionate
involvement from students, driven by a sense of idealism and a desire to effect
change. While student activism has historically played a pivotal role in shaping
political landscapes, the growing entanglement of student unions with
national political parties raise significant concerns. Student unions have
historically acted as platforms for democratic engagement and activism.
However, as these unions become increasingly aligned with national political
parties, they risk transforming campuses into battlegrounds for ideological
conflict rather than centers of learning, creating a polarized environment
where ideological differences overshadow academic interests. This polarization
may lead to a hostile atmosphere on campus, stifling constructive dialogue
and discouraging students with dissenting views from participating in campus
life.
Students may find themselves preoccupied with political debates, rallies, and
campaigns, diverting attention away from their academic responsibilities. This
diversion can adversely affect academic performance, leading to lower grades
and diminished educational outcomes. Furthermore, the stress and tension
associated with political conflicts can negatively impact mental health, further
compromising students' ability to focus on their studies. The competitive
nature of student politics, especially when influenced by larger political parties,
can lead to conflicts and violence on campus. Instances of clashes between
rival student groups, disruptions of academic activities, and vandalism are not
uncommon in politically charged environments.
While involvement in student politics can offer valuable experience in
governance and activism, the risks associated with party-affiliated student
unions can have lasting consequences. Students who engage in politically
charged environments may become disillusioned with the political process if
their experiences are marked by conflict and inefficiency. This disillusionment
can lead to disengagement from political activities in the future, diminishing
the potential for meaningful civic participation. Moreover, the focus on partisan
politics can limit students' exposure to diverse perspectives and hinder their
ability to engage in constructive dialogue across political divides.
MERIDIAN MUN

Youth politics, when driven by party affiliations and ideological conflicts,

presents significant challenges for students and educational institutions. The
risks of political polarization, disruption of academic focus, potential violence,
and co-option of activism highlight the need for a balanced approach to
student engagement in politics. While student activism remains a vital
component of democratic societies, it is essential to ensure that it does not
undermine the primary mission of educational institutions or detract from
students' personal and academic development. By fostering environments
where students can engage in politics constructively and independently,
institutions can better support their growth as informed, critical thinkers and
responsible citizens.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES:

India, with its youthful demographic comprising 27.1% of its population, faces
significant opportunities and challenges in harnessing this potential for
community development. The Youth in India Report 2022 highlights the
critical role that youth can play as agents of change, underscoring the
importance of their engagement in various developmental activities. However,
despite their potential, youth often face numerous barriers that hinder their
effective participation in community development.
The social environment in which youth live significantly impacts their ability to
engage in community development. Social divisions and structural barriers,
such as caste, religion, and geographical location, often limit their
opportunities and influence. These factors create environments that can either
support or inhibit youth participation. For instance, youth from marginalized
communities may face additional challenges, including limited access to
resources and opportunities, which can restrict their involvement in
meaningful social action.
The role of the social environment is crucial in shaping the behaviors and
attitudes of youth. When youth are supported by a nurturing social
environment, they are more likely to engage actively in community
development. Conversely, a lack of support or hostile social conditions can lead
to disengagement and disillusionment. This underscores the need for a
supportive social environment that facilitates youth participation.
Economic resources play a pivotal role in youth participation. Lack of access to
economic opportunities can lead to exclusion from formal production and
legitimate economic identity. Prolonged unemployment and economic
instability can drive youth towards risky behaviors and exclusion from
productive activities. To harness the potential of youth for community
development, it is essential to address these economic constraints and provide
opportunities for meaningful employment and economic participation.
MERIDIAN MUN

Youth political opportunities in India are often constrained by generational

inequality and systemic factors such as caste, religion, and education. The
limited political space for young people to exercise their creative abilities and
energy restricts their ability to address societal challenges. Moreover, the
pervasive influence of political parties in campus politics and the subsequent
involvement of student unions in broader political activities can sometimes
overshadow the genuine concerns of youth, leading to conflicts and
detachment. The political environment needs to be more inclusive, allowing
youth to engage in meaningful ways without being sidelined by generational
divides or political machinations. Creating platforms for youth to voice their
concerns and participate in decision-making processes is crucial for fostering a
more inclusive and dynamic political landscape.

THE ROLE OF INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT

AND CAPACITY BUILDING:
Institutional support is a critical factor in facilitating youth participation in
community development. Many youth lack the necessary technical knowledge
and decision-making skills required for effective engagement. Therefore,
capacity building and training are essential to equip young people with the
skills and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to community
development.
Programs aimed at enhancing youth capabilities should be a fundamental
aspect of community development initiatives. By providing training and
support, institutions can empower youth to take an active role in shaping their
communities. The Bronfenbrenner Ecological Systems Theory emphasizes the
complex interactions between individuals and their environments,
highlighting the need for comprehensive support systems that integrate
various subsystems, including families, schools, and community organizations.
A prevailing perception that youth are disinterested in community
development activities often overlooks the lack of opportunities and support
available to them. It is not that youth are inherently disengaged; rather, they
may lack the necessary avenues for participation or be disillusioned by the
systemic barriers they face. Addressing these perceptions requires a more
nuanced understanding of youth experiences and the challenges they
encounter.
Leveraging the potential of youth for community development in India
requires addressing social, economic, and political barriers while providing
institutional support and capacity building. By creating a supportive
environment that fosters youth engagement and addressing systemic
challenges, India can harness the energy and creativity of its youthful
population to drive meaningful social change and development.
 MERIDIAN MUN

WAY FORWARD:
The vitality and potential of India's youth represent a significant asset in
shaping the nation’s future. The diverse and dynamic demographic of young
people holds the power to drive transformative change, yet their full potential
remains largely untapped due to various barriers. To cultivate a generation of
informed and engaged citizens, it is imperative to address these barriers
through strategic initiatives and comprehensive support.
As highlighted, the challenges faced by youth in political participation range
from societal divisions and economic constraints to the risks associated with
political polarization and party affiliations. Addressing these issues requires a
multifaceted approach that includes promoting inclusive political
environments, providing institutional support, and fostering capacity-building
programs. By empowering youth through education, skills development, and
meaningful opportunities for involvement, we can bridge the gap between
potential and participation.
Moreover, the historical role of student movements and campus politics
underscores the importance of creating spaces where youthful enthusiasm
can be channeled constructively. It is essential to encourage engagement that
respects academic priorities while fostering a culture of dialogue and debate.
Ensuring that student activism remains focused on constructive change rather
than becoming entangled in partisan conflicts will enhance its efficacy and
sustainability. To realize the vision of a politically active and responsible youth,
there must be concerted efforts from all stakeholders—government bodies,
educational institutions, community organizations, and the youth themselves.
By working collaboratively to dismantle existing barriers and enhance
opportunities, India can leverage the strengths of its youthful population to
drive community development, policy innovation, and democratic
engagement.
In conclusion, the engagement of youth in political processes and decision-
making is not merely a matter of increasing participation; it is about shaping a
future where young people are active contributors to societal progress. By
addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities presented, we can
ensure that the energy, creativity, and aspirations of India's youth play a pivotal
role in the nation's development and governance.
MERIDIAN MUN

QUESTIONS THE COMMITTEE MAY

CONSIDER:
1) How can we effectively integrate youth into the political process without
compromising their academic and personal development?

2) What measures can be implemented to ensure that student unions and

campus politics do not become battlegrounds for ideological conflicts and
violence?

3) How can political parties and institutions better engage with youth without
overshadowing their genuine concerns and aspirations?

4) What strategies can be employed to provide equitable access and

opportunities for youth from marginalized communities in political and civic
activities?

5) What role should educational institutions play in preparing students for

political and civic engagement while ensuring their safety and well-being?

6) How can economic constraints be addressed to enable youth to participate

more actively in community development and political processes?

7) What institutional support mechanisms are necessary to build the capacity

of youth for effective participation in political and decision-making processes?

8) How can youth be encouraged to develop informed opinions and engage in

politics constructively without being swayed by party affiliations or ideological
biases?

9) What are the potential risks of involving youth in constitutional protests, and
how can these risks be mitigated?

10) How can political leaders and policymakers better understand and address
the unique challenges faced by youth in engaging with political processes?

11) What role should non-governmental organizations and community groups

play in facilitating youth participation and addressing systemic barriers?
 MERIDIAN MUN

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