DUSU Poll: Delhi University rolls out ‘zero tolerance’ policy for campus defacement

With the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections for fast approaching, the university administration has announced a stringent “zero tolerance” policy against defacement, under the banner of its “Green Election, Clean Election” initiative.

The announcement was made following a meeting on Tuesday, attended by the Chief Election Officer, members of the Proctorial Board, Maurice Nagar SHO, DUSU office bearers and student representatives.

An official statement from the DU Election Committee said, “The committee also apprised the representative that there would be zero tolerance for defacement during the current DUSU elections.” All candidates have been directed to use only handmade posters and to strictly adhere to specified campaign expenditure limits. The university’s crackdown follows complaints from past years, when graffiti, unauthorised banners and posters covered walls, flyovers, and metro pillars across both North and South campuses. This year, authorities say, enforcement would be much more vigilant.

In an effort to restrict misuse of campaign vehicles, DU has announced that any car with tinted windows or missing number plates would be seized immediately. In addition, student bodies wishing to use vehicles for campaigning must now apply for special entry passes, which require university clearance.

Student leaders proposed the establishment of a “Wall of Democracy” in each college where campaign material may be displayed. The Election Committee responded positively and said the proposal would be shared with all constituent colleges.