Students of the School of Management, Tribhuvan University (SOMTU) have launched a silent protest against the university administration’s decision to introduce Free Student Union (FSU) elections within their institution. The demonstration, now in its fourth day, aims to preserve SOMTU’s tradition as a politics-free academic environment.

For the past 13 years, SOMTU has operated without FSU involvement, fostering a purely academic atmosphere centered on professional growth and leadership development. However, the recent decision by the Vice-Chancellor and Rector to impose FSU voting rights without prior consultation with students, faculty, or the institution’s administration has triggered strong opposition.

“SOMTU is not just another college; we are here to learn, grow, and gain knowledge. We do not want the disruption and chaos that often come with student politics,” said a protesting student. “We believe in academic excellence and a professional learning environment, and the introduction of student union politics will jeopardize that.”

Following the announcement, students reported that FSU representatives began campaigning inside classrooms, disrupting academic activities. In response, a petition signed by over 80% of eligible student voters has been submitted to key university authorities, including SOMTU, the Faculty of Management (FOM), and Tribhuvan University (TU), urging them to revoke the decision.

The students have outlined two primary demands: The immediate revocation of voting rights for FSU elections at SOMTU and the prevention of any further FSU interference to maintain a professional and academic-focused learning environment.

“We are not against democracy, but student unions in Nepal have historically disrupted education rather than improving it. We do not want SOMTU to become another battleground for political agendas,” a student representative stated.