The role of university and college students during the Telangana movement from 1991 to 2014 was pivotal in mobilizing support for the demand for a separate Telangana state. Their activism, organization, and engagement helped shape public discourse and significantly influenced the trajectory of the movement. Here’s an overview of their contributions:

1. Mobilization and Advocacy

  • Rallies and Protests: University and college students actively organized and participated in rallies, demonstrations, and protests advocating for separate statehood. These events brought thousands of young people together, showcasing the collective desire for a distinct identity and political representation.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Students played a crucial role in raising awareness about the historical and socio-economic injustices faced by the Telangana region. They organized campaigns to inform the public and fellow students about the significance of the movement.

2. Formation of Student Organizations

  • Establishment of Unions: Various student unions and organizations, such as the Telangana Students’ Association and Telangana Vidyavanthula Vedika, were formed to represent student interests and mobilize support for the Telangana cause.
  • Coalition Building: Students collaborated with other organizations, political parties, and social movements, creating a broad coalition that united different sections of society under the common goal of achieving statehood.

3. Intellectual Engagement

  • Debates and Discussions: College campuses became centers for intellectual debates and discussions on issues related to statehood, identity, and socio-economic development. Students engaged with faculty members, activists, and community leaders, enriching the discourse around the movement.
  • Research and Documentation: Some students took on the task of researching the historical, cultural, and economic aspects of the Telangana region, producing literature and materials that supported the movement’s arguments.

4. Use of Media and Technology

  • Social Media Activism: With the rise of digital technology, students leveraged social media platforms to spread awareness about the Telangana movement, share information, and organize events. They created online campaigns that reached a broader audience and attracted national attention.
  • Cultural Expression: Students used various forms of art, including songs, poetry, and theatre, to express their aspirations and grievances. Cultural programs showcased Telangana’s rich heritage, helping to foster regional pride.

5. Engagement with Political Processes

  • Youth Leadership: Many student leaders emerged as prominent voices in the movement, articulating the demands of the youth and pushing for political engagement. They participated in discussions with political leaders and advocated for inclusion in the political process.
  • Voter Mobilization: Students actively worked to mobilize voters during elections, encouraging participation in the democratic process and emphasizing the importance of electing representatives who supported the Telangana cause.

6. Impact on the Movement

  • Strengthening Unity: The involvement of university and college students helped to strengthen the overall unity of the Telangana movement, as they connected various groups and individuals who shared the common goal of achieving statehood.
  • Influencing Public Perception: The visibility and activism of students helped shift public perception regarding the Telangana movement, making it a significant political issue that garnered attention at the state and national levels.
  • Catalyst for Change: The energy and enthusiasm of students were crucial in sustaining the momentum of the movement, ultimately contributing to the political developments that led to the formation of Telangana as a separate state on June 2, 2014.

7. Legacy

  • Post-Statehood Engagement: After the formation of Telangana, many student leaders continued to engage in political and social issues, advocating for youth empowerment, education, and development in the new state.
  • Cultural Preservation: The role of students in preserving and promoting Telangana’s cultural identity remains vital, as they continue to participate in cultural events and initiatives that celebrate the region’s heritage.

Conclusion

University and college students played a transformative role in the Telangana movement from 1991 to 2014. Their activism, intellectual engagement, and organizational efforts not only mobilized support for the demand for separate statehood but also shaped the movement’s narrative and direction. The impact of their contributions continues to resonate in the ongoing discourse around identity, rights, and development in Telangana.