A festival of democracy lights up North Campus

Students arrived at the North Campus of Delhi University in waves on Thursday morning, carrying colourful pamphlets and chatting excitedly with friends. The gates were decorated with banners and posters, dhols boomed in the background, and small groups of volunteers waved flags while handing out water and snacks. The air buzzed with energy, laughter, and the smell of street food from nearby stalls, giving the impression that the university had transformed into a vibrant festival ground rather than an election venue.

Long queues quickly formed outside polling booths as voters, many of them casting their first ballot, waited eagerly to participate in the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections. Groups outside danced to the drumbeats, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a college mela.

“I am voting for the first time in the DU elections and I felt proud about it. Standing in line for so long was worth it because I wanted to be part of the process,” said Ankit Kumar, a Hindu College student.

Every corner of the campus mirrored the excitement. Banners and flags in party colours fluttered like festive decorations, chai stalls became the adda for heated discussions, and streets overflowed with student convoys chanting slogans.

With Lyngdoh Committee rules strictly implemented, this year’s polls were also described as cleaner and more vibrant than in previous years. “The whole campus looked so lively today, like we were part of something bigger than just voting,” said Vijay Kumar, a Kirori Mal College student.

The celebrations did not stop at the gates. Inside, canteens buzzed with gossip and predictions, laughter mixing with serious debates. “I came with my friends and we were so excited. We kept discussing who we voted for all through lunch,” said Simran Yadav, a Daulat Ram College student.

As the afternoon set in, the beats of drums grew louder, drawing students into impromptu dance circles. “For us, it was not just about politics, it felt like Holi or Diwali on the campus. The whole day was a celebration,” said Deepak Dalal, a Hansraj College student.

By the time polling ended at 7.30 in the evening, the streets were strewn with pamphlets, the dhols had quietened, and the campuses slowly returned to calm. Much like the anticipation after a festival night, all eyes are now on the results, the grand finale of the DU’s annual festival of democracy.