Students of Delhi University (DU) headed to polls today to elect a new Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU). The elections have centered on practical student concerns such as campus safety, hostel facilities, free Wi-Fi, and gender representation, rather than the usual loud rallies and slogans. The contest primarily involves Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), and the SFI-AISA Left Alliance.
Key Promises from Student Groups
ABVP (Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad) – Presidential candidate Aryan Maan emphasized:
- Improved sports facilities and nutrition for students
- Campus accessibility audits for students with special needs
- Free Wi-Fi across the university
NSUI (National Students’ Union of India) – Representative Ravi Pandey highlighted:
- Focus on accommodation, housing, campus infrastructure, and transportation
- Monthly allowance of ₹5,000 for disabled students
- Greater representation for linguistic and North-Eastern minorities in university committees
SFI-AISA Left Alliance – Manifesto included:
- Fight against fee hikes
- Elected Internal Complaints Committees
- Gender sensitisation cells in all colleges
- Menstrual leave for women students
Recent Controversies
- Bond Controversy: DU introduced a refundable ₹1 lakh bond for election candidates, sparking protests. ABVP’s Delhi state secretary Sarthak Sharma criticized it as exclusionary.
- Campaign Conduct: Stricter enforcement of Lyngdoh Committee rules resulted in fewer rallies and minimal defacement. The focus shifted to real issues like safety, transport, and hostels.
Student voices also reflect optimism. A third-year Kirori Mal College student, Mayank Singh, said: “This year manifestos actually talk about Wi-Fi, hostels, and safety. We’ll see if they keep these promises, but at least these issues are being discussed.
Delhi High Court Orders
The Delhi High Court directed that no victory processions shall be taken out on campus or elsewhere. The HC noted that such processions often become unmanageable for police and DU authorities. The university also appealed to candidates and supporters to avoid freebies, unlawful outings, unregistered vehicles, and excessive spending. Colleges have been instructed to ensure peaceful voting with police support.
DUSU: A Launchpad for National Leaders
Several prominent leaders began their careers in DUSU:
