Delhi High Court Warns Against Election Violence in DUSU Elections

New Delhi, September 17 (Daily Kiran) : The Delhi High Court issued a stern warning on Thursday regarding the ongoing Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections, emphasizing that it may halt the counting of votes if it finds the actions taken against candidates and individuals involved in election-related violence unsatisfactory.

Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyay and Justice Tejas Karia made these remarks during a hearing prompted by attorney Prashant Manchanda. Manchanda called for strict adherence to the recommendations of the Lyngdoh Committee, anti-ragging guidelines, and the DUSU election code of conduct during the 2026-27 elections.

While the court confirmed that it would not postpone the voting scheduled for September 18, it warned that a more stringent order could be issued if authorities fail to manage the situation effectively. “The court will not entertain excuses. We want to make it clear that although we are not halting the elections, we may issue a strong directive to stop the counting or declaration of results if we are not satisfied with your actions,” the bench stated.

The court recognized the importance of democracy but stressed that it should not devolve into a criminal society. It directed both Delhi University and the Delhi police to submit a status report regarding actions taken against incidents of violence and violations of the Lyngdoh Committee guidelines, court orders, and the electoral code of conduct.

The next hearing is set for September 18 at noon, where further instructions will be based on the status report. During the proceedings, the petitioner alleged that violence had erupted among candidates, supporters, and outsiders in North Campus, with claims of armed confrontations and attacks on professors and students.

The petitioner also highlighted instances of vandalism, clashes, and the alleged intrusion of outsiders into college campuses. Chetan Sharma, appearing on behalf of the central government, condemned the violent incidents as “utterly reprehensible,” asserting that those responsible must face punishment.