Delhi High Court Takes Firm Stand on DUSU Election Violence
The Delhi High Court has issued a stern warning to the Central government, Delhi University (DU), and the Delhi Police over their perceived inaction in addressing violence and hooliganism during the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) election campaign. The court’s Division Bench, consisting of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, emphasized that unless adequate measures are taken against those flouting the rules, the counting of votes scheduled for September 18 could be halted.
During the session, the Bench made it clear that while the election itself would not be postponed, failure by the authorities to act could result in the suspension of vote counting or result declaration. Chief Justice Upadhyaya remarked, “No excuses will be accepted by the Court… If we are not satisfied with your action, we can pass a harsher order.”
Hearing Scheduled Amidst Concerns of Democracy and Safety
The court has scheduled a follow-up hearing for September 18 at noon, insisting on the presence of lawyers representing student organizations. The justices expressed their disappointment over the situation, stating, “We are more than conscious that we are a democratic society, but we are also conscious that this democracy can’t be converted into a criminal society.”
Petition Highlights Violations and Violence
This case was initiated by advocate Prashant Manchanda, who sought the enforcement of the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations and the DUSU election code of conduct. The application, part of an ongoing writ petition, highlighted violations such as the use of large vehicle cavalcades, rallies, and unauthorized campaign materials. Manchanda alleged incidents of violence, including vandalism and confrontations involving candidates and supporters, some of whom allegedly brandished weapons.
Manchanda provided photographic evidence to the court, illustrating how campaigners used vehicles without number plates and engaged in intimidating behavior. The ASG, Chetan Sharma, representing the Central government, acknowledged the severity of the incidents on September 16 but claimed that the situation on campus had since calmed.
More Read
Court Demands Action from Authorities
The court expressed skepticism towards the government’s assurances, highlighting the ease with which the individuals in the photographs could be identified. The Bench stated, “The photographs with this petition… show vehicles being used by the candidates. It’s not very difficult to identify them.”
In its directive, the court ordered that the parties involved must complete their instructions by the following day. It also called for a status report from both the Delhi Police and Delhi University detailing actions taken against any breaches of conduct as outlined by the Lyngdoh Committee and the court’s orders. The Bench concluded by reaffirming that student unions should be “nurseries of democracy” and not devolve into disorder.
