Elect a student, not politician: Students press for change in varsity democracy

As the Delhi University prepares for its Students’ Union (DUSU) elections, a familiar debate is once again buzzing around: are students electing genuine leaders from among themselves, or simply politicians in the making? While campaigning has reached a fever pitch with posters, promises flooding campuses, a large section of students say the elections no longer feel like their own.

Instead of focusing on the issues of students, they appear more interested in projecting their political affiliations and building long-term careers.

“Most of the time, candidates sound like they are already in mainstream politics. But as students, we need someone who actually shares our daily struggles,” said Parvesh Singh, a third-year student at Kirori Mal College.

For many, the problem lies in the changing culture of campaigning. What once revolved around debates and issue-based discussions has increasingly become about show of strength, flashy vehicles and empty sloganeering.

“It feels like candidates are more focused on showing numbers and banners than giving solutions. Elections should be about classrooms, not crowds,” said Arvind Kumar, a Ramjas College student.

Female students, too, voice similar concerns. “Safety and hostel facilities matter a lot for us, but these are rarely highlighted during campaigns. We want leaders who can take these issues to the administration without being overshadowed by party politics,” said Ritika Sharma, a second-year student at Miranda House.

Despite this frustration, many acknowledge that a strong union is essential for representing students before the administration. They say issues such as affordable hostels, fee regulation, women’s safety on campus and better placement opportunities can only be effectively taken up by a student body that is truly connected to the ground.

For first-year students, the gap between expectations and reality feels especially wide. “I thought student elections would be about ideas and debates, but most candidates behave like career politicians. We need leaders who speak like classmates, not like netas,” said Neha Verma, a first-year student of Political Science.

Observers say this sentiment could define this year’s elections. Many feel that unless candidates return to the basics of student issues, the decline in turnout will continue. As one DU professor put it, “The message from students is loud and clear — they don’t want noise and posters, they want genuine representation.”