Aditya Narayan Mishra, a respected academic who led the Delhi University Teachers Association three times, joined the Congress on Monday, bringing with him a stark warning about the state of India's education. He didn't mince words—the system, he said, is crumbling.

Key facts

  • Aditya Narayan Mishra joined Congress on September 14, 2026
  • He is a three-time former president of DUTA
  • The group Academics for Action and Development merged with Congress
  • Senior leaders including Qazi Nizamuddin and Devender Yadav were present

A Move Rooted in Concern

Mishra's decision wasn't made in isolation. He arrived alongside fellow academics, with the organization Academics for Action and Development formally merging into the party. The atmosphere in Delhi was charged—here was a man who had spent years advocating for teachers and students, now stepping into the political arena with a clear mission.

Leaders Voice Their Support

Delhi Congress in-charge Qazi Nizamuddin welcomed Mishra warmly, noting the significance of his joining at a time when education faces mounting challenges. He pointed to Rahul Gandhi's consistent fight for student justice, suggesting that Mishra's intellectual heft would bolster those efforts.

"Rahul Gandhi is fighting to uphold government-funded institutions, as well as justice and dignity for everybody," Mr. Mishra said.

Devender Yadav echoed the sentiment, stressing that the country's youth need proper direction. Rajendra Pal Gautam, AICC Uttar Pradesh in-charge, went further, alleging funds misallocation at Delhi University and tying Mishra's move to a broader defense of democracy and the Constitution.

The Stakes for Education

Mishra's critique was blunt: government educational institutions are "under attack," with thousands of schools shut down. His goal, he stated, is to strengthen Rahul Gandhi's hands and help pull the country out of this crisis. For a seasoned academic to speak so urgently signals deep unrest—and a hope that political engagement might turn the tide.