Book Review: Student Politics of IIT Madras by Shushant Jaswal

Student Politics of IIT Madras by Shushant Jaswal is a powerful and timely exploration of campus politics in one of India’s most prestigious institutions. While the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are known for their academic rigor and technological innovation, Jaswal brings to light a lesser-discussed yet deeply impactful aspect of student life: political discourse, activism, and ideological clashes within the IIT Madras campus.

In this comprehensive book review, we’ll dive into the core themes of the book, discuss its relevance, and analyze why Student Politics of IIT Madras is a must-read for anyone interested in Indian campus politics, student movements, or contemporary social dynamics in higher education.

About the Author: Shushant Jaswal

Shushant Jaswal is a researcher and writer known for his deep dives into political thought, student activism, and institutional dynamics. With a keen eye for detail and a strong background in political science, Jaswal presents an insider’s perspective enriched by interviews, documented events, and ideological context. His work blends journalistic rigor with academic insight.

Summary of Student Politics of IIT Madras

At its core, Student Politics of IIT Madras dissects the complex, often hidden world of student activism within a seemingly apolitical academic space. The book traces how political ideologies — including leftist, centrist, and right-wing thought — influence the lives of students and faculty alike.

Jaswal focuses on:

The rise of ideological groups in IIT Madras
Censorship, resistance, and administrative pressures
Landmark student protests and policy changes
How caste, class, and privilege intersect with politics on campus
The impact of national politics on institutional autonomy

Through well-researched chapters, the book showcases how even elite campuses like IIT Madras are not immune to the growing polarization in Indian society.

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Key Themes and Analysis

1. Ideological Conflicts on Campus

Jaswal carefully unpacks the ongoing tug-of-war between various political and social groups, such as Ambedkarite collectives, right-leaning student bodies, and liberal discussion forums. This ideological diversity challenges the stereotype of IITs as apolitical spaces.

2. Freedom of Expression vs Institutional Control

The book highlights several incidents where students faced disciplinary action or backlash for expressing dissent. These cases raise critical questions about freedom of speech, academic freedom, and the role of university administration in regulating discourse.

3. Role of Caste and Identity

One of the most powerful aspects of the book is its unflinching look at caste dynamics. From discrimination in hostels to marginalization in classrooms, Jaswal amplifies voices that are often silenced in elite academic circles.

4. National Politics Influencing Campus Life

Jaswal draws connections between central government policies and their trickle-down effect on student life, such as the debates over nationalism, citizenship laws, and campus surveillance.

Writing Style and Structure

Shushant Jaswal writes in a straightforward, approachable style without losing intellectual depth. The book is organized into themed parts, making it easier for readers to navigate the various aspects of the subject. Jaswal backs up his claims with interviews, student testimonies, and official documentation, which lend legitimacy and authenticity to the account.

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Why You Should Read Student Politics of IIT Madras

If you’re a current or former IIT student, this book offers a new lens to view your own campus experiences.
For educators and policymakers, it raises important questions about governance and student rights.
If you’re interested in social justice, identity politics, or modern Indian politics, the book offers ground-level insights rarely found in mainstream media.

Final Thought

Rating

Student Politics of IIT Madras is a bold, insightful, and necessary read in today’s polarized academic and political climate. Shushant Jaswal challenges readers to rethink what student life really entails and encourages open discussions about institutional accountability, student autonomy, and democratic values in higher education.