The Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections, taking place on September 18, have prompted the Delhi Police to bolster security measures at the North Campus. With polling booths opening for student voters, the police have segmented the campus into five distinct zones and 23 sectors to facilitate a smooth electoral process and mitigate any potential disturbances.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Pukhraj K Gupta stated that both zonal and sector-level officers have been assigned across the campus. To secure key entry points, pickets and barricades have been established at the gates of colleges and other significant checkpoints. Gupta confirmed that the area has been kept accessible, allowing vehicles and individuals to enter, vote, and exit without complications.

The police presence has been strategically planned, with an Assistant Commissioner of Police overseeing zone-specific responsibilities and inspector-level officers managing each sector. Gupta emphasised that their proactive approach aims to ensure safety during the elections.

Preparation and Monitoring in Shahdara District

In anticipation of the elections, DCP Rajendra Prasad Meena conducted a review of security at Shyam Lal College and Vivekananda College in the Shahdara district. Both institutions are scheduled to accommodate voters, with Shyam Lal College operating in both morning and evening shifts, while Vivekananda Mahila College runs only in the morning.

Meena elaborated on the comprehensive security arrangements that have been made, which include the deployment of local police and external reinforcements. Enhanced patrolling has been initiated in the surrounding areas and all personnel have been placed on high alert to deter any potential unrest.

Monitoring efforts will incorporate the use of drones where necessary, alongside existing CCTV surveillance and on-site photography. In response to inquiries regarding the arrival of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the DCP noted that the administration would confirm their status shortly, ensuring polling preparations are thoroughly verified.

Election Context and Candidate Overview

The DUSU elections have arrived following an active campaign by various student organisations. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has nominated Yash Dabas for president, Ishu Maurya for vice-president, Riya Chhawadi for secretary, and Lakshya Raj Singh for joint secretary, representing all four central posts on ballot number 7-3-3-3.

The ABVP has highlighted campaign issues related to campus life, focusing on infrastructure, quality education, women’s safety, and the need for a more accountable student union. The organisation expressed optimism about securing a clean sweep in the elections, anticipating a “4-0 victory.”

Additionally, the student wing of the Aam Aadmi Party, known as the Association of Students for Alternative Politics (ASAP), has selected Ashmit Kumar (Gurjar) as its presidential candidate. A diverse array of candidates is contesting in this election, with seven vying for the presidency, five for the vice-presidency, and four each for secretary and joint secretary, according to the final candidate list released prior to polling.

As voting proceeds across the university on September 18, police officials have confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and convenience of students while maintaining a secure environment at the colleges and key locations throughout the campus. Delhi University has also disseminated election-related notifications to students, including a notice on September 17 regarding voting eligibility.

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