25-Nov-2024, 12:56 PM
The counting of votes for the long-delayed Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections commenced on November 25, 2024, at North Campus, nearly two months after the polling took place on September 27. The results were initially scheduled for announcement the day after the election but were postponed due to a Delhi High Court order that mandated the cleanup of defaced public property before any results could be declared.
Background of Delays
The delays in the election results stemmed from concerns over extensive defacement caused during the campaigning period. The Delhi High Court had instructed the university to ensure that all campaign-related defacement was addressed, which involved cleaning over 190 locations across the campus. This cleanup process caused significant postponements, moving the expected announcement date first to November 21 and then to November 25.
Candidates and Positions
In total, 21 candidates are competing for four central panel positions: eight for president, five for vice president, and four each for secretary and joint secretary. Key contenders include Rishabh Chaudhary from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Rounak Khatri from the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), and Saavy Gupta from the All India Students’ Association (AISA) for the presidential post. For vice president, Bhanu Pratap Singh (ABVP), Yash Nandal (NSUI), and Ayush Mondal (AISA) are in contention.
Election Monitoring and Regulations
The voting process was conducted under strict supervision to ensure transparency. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were securely stored and monitored continuously until they were unsealed for counting. Additionally, candidates were required to sign an affidavit committing to refrain from celebratory activities such as rallies or loud celebrations post-results, with violations potentially leading to disqualification.
.As the vote counting progresses, initial reports indicate a competitive race among the major parties involved, particularly between ABVP and NSUI. The ABVP currently holds a majority in the DUSU, with previous positions including president and joint secretary.
The final results are expected to shape student politics at Delhi University significantly as they reflect student sentiment and party influence on campus.
