DU issues fresh advisory for safe conduct of events

Delhi University (DU) has issued a fresh advisory to all its colleges, hostels and affiliated institutions to ensure the safe, smooth and orderly conduct of events and gatherings such as annual fests, hostel nights and other functions.

The advisory builds upon the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of Delhi Police, issued in compliance with the Delhi High Court’s directions in WP (C) No. 13293/2023 dated November 10, 2023—and the Proctor’s Office advisory dated January 11, 2024.

As part of the new measures, the university has directed the appointment of dedicated Liaison Officers (LOs) for both the North and South campuses. Each college or hostel organising an event must also appoint its own LO to coordinate with the Delhi Police. The LO will be responsible for sharing key details such as the event schedule, nature of the programme, presence of VVIPs, expected attendance and real-time updates with the police authorities.

The advisory also stresses the need for a social media communication plan, directing organisers to clearly outline the event’s timing, entry requirements and traffic arrangements in their online announcements.

For emergency preparedness, colleges are instructed to ensure the presence of first-aid teams, a static ambulance and adequate fire safety measures within the premises or at the venue.

Emphasising crowd management and access control, the university has recommended separate entry and exit points for VIPs and general attendees, along with pre-planned and rehearsed contingency routes.

Colleges are also required to give advance intimation to the police—providing full details of the event, including layout and expected crowd—at least 72 hours before the event’s commencement.

To enhance safety and coordination, the use of public address systems and CCTV cameras has been made mandatory at key points such as gates, parking areas, and main event zones.

Importantly, the university clarified that responsibility for managing events lies solely with the organising college or institution, not the Delhi Police. Organisers have been instructed to hire adequately-trained private security personnel and bouncers and deploy traffic marshals and volunteers to assist with crowd control and parking.