Delhi University Students Vote in DUSU Elections Today

Students at Delhi University are participating in the DUSU (Delhi University Students’ Union) elections today, September 18, 2025. Voting commenced at 08:30 and will continue until 19:30 in two distinct phases. The election is expected to see an active turnout, as the student body is keen to make their voices heard in a contest that plays a significant role in shaping campus life.

According to reports, the elections are taking place under strict security measures, with over 600 police personnel deployed to ensure a peaceful polling process. Of this number, 160 officers are equipped with body cameras for enhanced monitoring. Additionally, drones and CCTV cameras are being utilized for real-time surveillance, aimed at preventing any potential disruptions.

Main Candidates and Their Platforms

The competition features three major student groups, each advocating for diverse issues pertinent to the student community. The main contenders are:

1. **Joslyn Nandita Choudhary (NSUI)**: A postgraduate student of Buddhist Studies, she is focusing her campaign on addressing hostel shortages, enhancing campus safety, and advocating for menstrual leave policies.

2. **Anjali (SFI–AISA alliance)**: A student from Indraprastha College for Women, Anjali’s campaign emphasizes gender sensitization, resisting fee hikes, and improving grievance redressal mechanisms.

3. **Aryan Maan (ABVP)**: Representing the Department of Library Science and hailing from Bahadurgarh, Aryan aims to provide subsidized metro passes, free Wi-Fi, accessibility audits, and better sports facilities on campus.

This year marks a significant shift, as women candidates are prominently featured, a rarity in the past two decades of DUSU elections.

Voting Eligibility and Guidelines

Approximately 280,000 students are eligible to vote this year, an increase from 225,000 in previous elections due to the inclusion of fourth-year students in the voting process. To vote, first-year students must present a valid fee receipt and a government-issued identification, such as an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, PAN, or Driver’s License, if their college IDs are not yet available. Second- and third-year students need to carry valid college identification. Only students who were admitted before September 9, 2025, at 17:00 are permitted to participate.

The stakes are notably high in these elections, as DUSU is often viewed as a stepping stone into national politics. Notable past leaders such as Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the late Arun Jaitley, and Ajay Maken have previously held DUSU positions.

Traffic Advisory and Regulations

In anticipation of the elections, Delhi University has implemented various traffic restrictions to manage crowds on September 18 and 19. Parking will be restricted to Gate No. 1, provided vehicles bear authorized university stickers. Gate No. 4 will be closed on both days, and traffic will be regulated on Chhatra Marg, Probyn Road, and University Road during polling hours.

On counting day, September 19, G.C. Narang Marg and Cavalry Lane will be completely closed to facilitate the process. Additionally, a recent ruling by the Delhi High Court prohibits candidates and student organizations from conducting victory processions following the announcement of results. The court has instructed the Delhi Police, university officials, and administration to take all necessary actions to ensure safety and prevent disturbances.

In a significant change this year, the university has enforced strict anti-defacement rules from the Lyngdoh Committee, resulting in a noticeable absence of posters and graffiti on college and hostel walls. Raj Kishore Sharma, the DUSU Chief Election Officer, expressed satisfaction with this development, stating, “We are happy that this year no defacement is visible in the campuses, which used to be our major problem.”

As students prepare to cast their votes, the outcome of this election may set the stage for important policy changes and enhance the campus experience for many at Delhi University.