In a significant move to engage the youth in political discourse, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal today unveiled the party’s new student wing, the Association of Students for Alternative Politics (ASAP), at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi. This initiative aims to mobilise students across the country to participate in what AAP describes as “alternative politics,” focusing on governance, education, and development rather than traditional party politics.Outlining his vision for ASAP, Kejriwal stated that multiple student groups would be created to host discussions, cultural programs, and social activities, providing students with a platform to engage with and contribute to society.

A shift towards youth engagement

The launch of ASAP marks AAP’s formal entry into campus politics, building upon its earlier youth wing, the Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti (CYSS). While CYSS will continue its activities, ASAP is envisioned as a more assertive and organised platform to connect with students nationwide. The party plans to mobilise five lakh student volunteers from 50,000 colleges across India, fostering a network committed to political reforms and community engagement.“Our country is grappling with fundamental issues like lack of healthcare, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure,” Kejriwal stated during the launch. “These problems are rooted in the politics practiced by mainstream parties over the past 75 years. It’s time for a change, and that change begins on our campuses.”

Emphasising alternative politics and educational reforms

With its launch, ASAP is expected to contest the upcoming Delhi University Student Union (DUSU) elections in September, signalling AAP’s intensified focus on campus-level political engagement. The organisation will also include a social wing to increase student participation in community service and social initiatives.Several students from Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab attended the launch event, reflecting the party’s intent to build a nationwide student movement advocating for political reforms and youth empowerment.With the introduction of ASAP, AAP aims to redefine student politics by fostering a generation of young leaders committed to transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.