Legacy of Resistance Echoes at SFI Former Leaders’ Meet

Palestine, Solidarity Nagar, Kozhikode: They arrived with clenched fists and voices echoing in unison, a thousand resonant greetings welcoming those who once led the way along the path of struggle. Climbing the steps of memory sharpened by resistance, they reached a gathering that celebrated both history and conviction. Survivors of dark times, including the Emergency era, shared stories of torture, repression, and endurance, passing down their legacy of perseverance and protest to the new generation. This was the atmosphere at the former leaders’ meet organised as part of the SFI All India Conference.

The event became a platform for creative dialogue among leaders who shaped the Student Federation of India across generations, beginning with Biman Basu, the organisation’s first General Secretary. Former state office bearers and Central Committee members were also present. Despite physical limitations of age, many made their way to the venue, driven by commitment and memory. Family members of those who became martyrs in the course of SFI’s struggles also participated, their voices carrying a shared emotion, SFI.

The assembly became a living archive of the organisation’s history. Experiences of SFI’s interventions during the Emergency and its unwavering stance against injustices were shared by leaders with deep conviction. The crowd responded with slogan chants, turning the session into a vibrant celebration of resistance.

SFI All India President V P Sanu presided over the meeting. Former national leaders including Biman Basu, Prakash Karat, M A Baby, E P Jayarajan, Nilotpal Basu, Venkateswara Rao, K N Balagopal, P Krishnaprasad, Arun Kumar, K K Ragesh, P K Biju, V Sivadasan and Vikram Singh shared their memories and reflections. All India General Secretary Mayukh Biswas delivered the welcome address.