Stage all set, Delhi University goes to polls today

The stage is set for the high-stakes Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections as over 2.8 to 3 lakh students will cast their votes on Thursday.

Considered one of the most politically significant student elections in the country, this year’s contest has attracted 21 candidates for the four top posts. The counting of votes will take place on September 19.

Nine candidates are contesting for the president’s post, the most sought-after seat, three for vice-president, four for the post of secretary and five for the post of joint secretary.

Voting will be held in two sessions to accommodate students across DU’s campuses and colleges. Students in day classes will cast their votes between 8:30 am and 1 pm, while those attending evening classes will vote from 3 pm to 7:30 pm.

The Election Committee has made arrangements to ensure smooth polling and strict monitoring to prevent clashes or violations of the model code of conduct.

“All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections. Voting will be held in two sessions to accommodate both day and evening students, and strict monitoring will be in place at all polling centres. We appeal to students to come forward and cast their votes responsibly,” said Professor Raj Kishor Sharma, Chief Election Officer, DU.

At the heart of this election are three main student organisations – the RSS-backed Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the Congress-linked National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and the Left alliance formed by the All-India Students’ Association (AISA) and Students’ Federation of India (SFI). Each group has fielded strong candidates and mobilised massive campaigns, both on ground and on social media. The presidential race, in particular, is shaping up to be a triangular contest among these leading outfits, with independents hoping to play spoiler.

The issues at play in this election reflect the concerns of thousands of DU students, ranging from campus infrastructure, placements, and internships to women’s safety, hostels and greater representation in decision-making. Over the past week, Delhi University’s North Campus has turned into a hub of campaigning, with rallies, pamphlets and social media campaigns flooding the student space. Leaders, youth icons and even entertainers have been roped in to woo voters, making the contest a mix of ideology, strategy and star power.

As the clock ticks closer to the polling day, the mood among students is one of excitement and curiosity. DUSU elections have long been seen as a launch pad for many national leaders, and tomorrow’s outcome could well reflect the larger ideological pulse of India’s youth. With campaigning now drawing to a close, all eyes are set on Thursday, when the ballot will speak.