Delhi University issues advisory for peaceful 2026 DUSU elections, restricts campaigning

The University of Delhi on Monday held a high-level online meeting with college principals, deans, directors, hostel authorities, heads of departments, and Delhi Police officials from both North and South campuses to finalise guidelines for the upcoming 2026 Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) elections. The university issued an advisory outlining measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful, orderly, and disruption-free election process while protecting academic activities and campus security.

The meeting came amid preparations for the student union polls, which are expected to draw significant participation from various student political organisations. The advisory, released through a press statement, emphasised that all stakeholders must adhere to the regulations to maintain discipline and a conducive academic environment on campus.

Key provisions of the advisory include restricting campaigning teams to a maximum of five members inside any university or college premises. The guidelines state that campaign activities must not obstruct regular academic functioning. Additionally, male members, except the candidate himself, will not be allowed inside girls' colleges or girls' hostels, a measure intended to ensure the safety and security of female students.

The university also prohibited the parking of vehicles on roads adjacent to both DU campuses and all affiliated colleges during the election period. Violations will attract legal action, the advisory warned. To enhance security, the university said that police patrolling vehicles will be available around the clock. Outside guests will face restrictions in both boys' and girls' hostels, and hostel canteens will be closely monitored. No outside guests will be permitted, and police will maintain entry registers at security barricades to track outside vehicles.

Senior university officials who attended the meeting included Proctor Prof Manoj Singh, Joint Proctor Prof Geeta Sahare, Prof Adhesh Kumar, Dr Koteswara Rao, Deputy Proctor Dr Saurabh, Dr Atmoja Bose, Dr Neetanjali Khari, Chief Election Officer Prof Raj Kishore Sharma, and Chief Returning Officer Prof Rajesh.

DUSU elections have historically been a vibrant but sometimes contentious affair at Delhi University, with periodic incidents of clashes and disruptions. The Lyngdoh Committee recommendations, which were upheld by the Supreme Court, have guided the conduct of student elections across Indian universities. These include limits on campaign expenditure, spending caps, and prohibitions on certain practices. The university's latest advisory builds on these principles to ensure a smooth and fair electoral process.

The university has urged all stakeholders, including student candidates and their supporters, to strictly follow the advisory. The measures are designed to protect students, maintain discipline, and ensure that academic life is not disrupted during the election period. As the polls approach, the administration is likely to hold further meetings and briefings to clarify the rules and address any concerns.

This development is significant as it sets the tone for the upcoming elections. The advisory reflects a proactive approach by the university administration and Delhi Police to prevent any untoward incidents and facilitate a democratic exercise that is both peaceful and meaningful for the student community.