The Radical Students Union (RSU) emerged during a turbulent period in India’s socio-political history, rooted in the aftermath of student leader George Reddy’s assassination in 1972. His death became a rallying point for student protests, eventually leading to the formation of the RSU in 1975. Though the organisation was outlawed in 1992, its ideological influence continues to echo within the broader Maoist movement in India.
Historical Backdrop And Emergence
The RSU was born out of the widespread unrest that gripped Indian campuses in the late 1960s and early 1970s, especially following the Naxalbari uprising. The death of George Reddy, a prominent student activist at Osmania University, galvanized students to organise against socio-economic injustices such as caste oppression and poverty. This momentum led to the formation of radical student groups, with RSU becoming one of the most prominent.
Mobilisation And Key Campaigns
During the 1970s, the RSU became a central force in leftist student activism. It maintained strong ideological and operational ties with the People’s War Group, a Maoist outfit. The union played an active role in mobilising youth and took part in significant protests, including participation in the Srikakulam Peasant Movement. One of its notable campaigns was the "Go to the Villages" initiative, where students worked closely with rural populations to address grassroots issues.
Ideology And Organisational Goals
RSU’s philosophy was deeply rooted in revolutionary Marxism-Leninism-Maoism. The organisation viewed education not merely as a tool for personal advancement, but as a means to achieve structural change in society. It focused on promoting social justice, equal rights, and community empowerment, encouraging students to become agents of change.
Suppression And Continued Influence
The union faced increasing scrutiny from the state and was officially banned in 1992 due to its alleged links with extremist groups. Despite the ban, many of its former members found roles within other Maoist organisations. The merger of the People’s War Group with the Maoist Communist Centre in 2004 to form the CPI (Maoist) absorbed many ex-RSU activists, thereby extending the group’s influence into mainstream Maoist operations.
Legacy And Modern-Day Significance
The RSU continues to be remembered for its role in shaping student-led resistance and radical thought in India. Even today, many leaders within the CPI (Maoist) have their roots in the RSU. Events marking the 50th anniversary of RSU have revived discussions on its historical impact and ideological contributions.
As the Indian government pushes to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism by 2026, understanding the roots and legacy of groups like the RSU offers crucial insight into the evolution of Maoist ideology and its ongoing presence in India’s socio-political landscape.
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