21 candidates are contesting for four key posts in the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) elections 2025. The first phase of voting has concluded. The second phase of voting will continue until 7:30 PM. Results will be declared on September 19.
DUSU Elections 2025: The DUSU elections 2025 at Delhi University are underway with considerable enthusiasm and competition. This time, a total of 21 candidates are contesting for various positions. The first phase of voting has been completed, and the second phase of voting will continue until 7:30 PM. For the post of President, a total of 9 candidates are in contention, including those from ABVP, NSUI, Left-backed candidates, and some independent contestants. The election results will be declared on September 19.
Second Phase of Voting Underway
The second phase of DUSU elections at Delhi University commenced at 3 PM. This phase is for students attending evening classes. Voting is scheduled until 7:30 PM. In the first phase, students from morning classes cast their votes. Now, students from evening classes are voting for their preferred candidates.
When will the Results be Declared?
After the conclusion of voting, vote counting will take place on September 19, 2025. It is expected that the results will also be declared on the same day. A total of 21 candidates are in the fray for four posts—President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Joint Secretary. The President's post is drawing the most attention, with nine candidates competing for it.
Candidates for President Post
Nine candidates are in the electoral fray for the President's post. These include Anjali, Anuj Kumar, Aryan Maan, Divyanshu Singh Yadav, Joslin Nandita Choudhary, Rahul Kumar, Umanshi, Yogesh Meena, and Abhishek Kumar.
- Joslin Nandita Choudhary is the NSUI candidate and is pursuing graduation in Buddhist Studies.
- Anjali is the Left-backed candidate from SFI and AISA, and a student of Indraprastha College for Women.
- Aryan Maan is the ABVP candidate and an MA Library Science student.
Besides these, the competition among other candidates is also considered very tough.
Election Issues
This time, important student-related issues were raised during the election campaign.
- Shortage of hostels
- Rising fees
- Women's safety
- Challenges in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
ABVP and NSUI are the main contenders in this election. Meanwhile, Left-wing organizations, along with independent candidates, have also made the electoral debate more diverse.
Allegations of Voting Irregularities
Controversies also emerged during the elections. NSUI's presidential candidate, Joslin Nandita Choudhary, alleged that EVM machines were tampered with in several colleges, including Hansraj and Kirori Mal Colleges. She stated that "open vote theft" was occurring and her supporters were being targeted outside polling stations.
NSUI made serious allegations against ABVP, claiming that blue ink marks were found next to the names of ABVP candidates on EVMs in some colleges. This directly affected voters' preferences.
Questions on Election Commission and Rules
The Delhi High Court had earlier stated that the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations should be followed in the elections. These rules advocated for reducing the use of drums, posters, and banners. However, videos from the university showed that election campaigning violated these rules.
Robust Security Arrangements
To maintain order during the elections, Delhi Police has deployed additional forces. CCTV cameras have been installed across the entire campus. Police personnel have been provided with 160 body-worn cameras to continuously monitor the voting process. Additionally, vehicles without number plates and those with tinted windows are also being checked.
Increasing Participation of Women Candidates
There has been a notable increase in the number of female candidates in the DUSU elections 2025. This time, three female candidates from the Department of Buddhist Studies are contesting for the President's post. Furthermore, students from Hindu College, Bhagini Nivedita College, and the Department of Social Work are in the fray for the Secretary and Joint Secretary positions. This change is considered a positive sign towards gender inclusivity in university student politics.
Which Student Organizations are Being Tested?
- ABVP (Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad)
- NSUI (National Students' Union of India)
- SFI (Students' Federation of India)
- AISA (All India Students' Association)
- ASAP (Association of Students for Alternative Politics)
A tough contest is being witnessed among these organizations this time.
