Delhi High Court Criticizes DUSU Candidates for Campaign Violations

The Delhi High Court has issued notices to all candidates who participated in the recent Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections, citing widespread violations of campaign rules. A bench led by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela expressed disappointment over the conduct of both successful and unsuccessful candidates, describing their actions as “disheartening” and “painful.”

The court’s criticism came after it was revealed that candidates had “flagrantly violated” court orders and university guidelines that prohibit extravagant campaigning, which included the use of heavy machinery and luxury vehicles. Among those receiving notices are newly elected president Aryan Maan, vice president Rahul Jhansla, and secretary Kunal Choudhary.

During the court proceedings, Delhi University’s counsel, Rupal Mohinder, informed the judges that the university had issued show-cause notices to the seven candidates involved, requesting explanations for their alleged infractions. In response, the candidates denied any wrongdoing, insisting that they were not presented with any evidence supporting the claims.

The Delhi Police reported that they had issued a total of 5,158 fines for traffic violations in the vicinity of the university from August 1 to September 16. An additional 386 fines were recorded between September 17 and 19. Despite these figures, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma argued that this year’s elections were “significantly more orderly and smooth” compared to previous years.

The court also heard from Sanjay Poddar, representing the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), who claimed that candidates associated with the organization adhered to the ban on victory processions. He noted that any celebration was limited to a “symbolic gesture” involving a garland placed on a statue of Swami Vivekananda.

Judicial Concerns Over Election Conduct

The judges expressed grave concerns regarding the state of electoral practices at the university. Chief Justice Upadhyay remarked, “Court’s cautionary orders have not worked… none of the candidates has abided by the guidelines.” He emphasized that the disregard for the rules was disheartening, stating, “Where are we heading to?”

The court criticized the candidates’ responses to the university’s notices, which were seen as mere legal arguments without any acknowledgment of the alleged violations. The judges pointed out that students had not learned from past experiences, highlighting that their replies appeared to be crafted without genuine recognition of the issues at hand.

The court characterized the current state of campus elections as a “tragic, painful, sad commentary” on democratic practices and institutions. They condemned the use of heavy machinery and luxury vehicles during campaigns, stating, “What can be worse than such campaigns? The only thing we do not want kicking in is the use of money and muscle power.”

The court is set to hear the matter again on November 6, 2023. This follows earlier warnings that newly elected office bearers would not be allowed to assume their roles if the elections, held on September 18, were marred by disorder or unrest. The court had also imposed restrictions on victory processions across campus and city venues.

The petition for action against the candidates was filed by advocate Prashant Manchanda, who sought adherence to the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations and the DUSU election code of conduct. As the situation unfolds, the court’s strict oversight highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining integrity within student elections.