DUSU Elections Affidavit Rule Explained
Delhi University clarified that the DUSU elections affidavit requires only surety, not money. The 2025 DUSU polls will focus on clean, eco-friendly campaigning.
Delhi University has clarified the rules for the DUSU elections affidavit this week. Students contesting the Delhi University Students’ Union polls need to give a surety, not deposit cash. The announcement came after confusion led some students to approach the Delhi High Court for a second time.
Officials explained that every candidate must submit a surety of ₹1 lakh. But this is not a cash deposit. Instead, it acts as a legal safeguard against property defacement during campaigning. If defacement is proven, the fine will be equal to the actual cost of damage.
The 2025–26 DUSU elections are set for September 18. The counting of votes and results will be declared on September 19.
Background of the Surety Bond
The DUSU elections affidavit and surety bond were introduced to address the problem of public property defacement. Delhi University has long faced criticism for wall posters, graffiti, and other damage during student campaigns.
- In past years, civic authorities fined DU for widespread defacement.
- Students often used painted slogans, banners, and posters across Delhi.
- Legal disputes arose because the cost of repair was very high.
According to reports, the bond makes candidates accountable. Instead of banning campaigning completely, DU created a system where defacement can be punished fairly.
The bond does not mean students must pay money up front. It only means that they accept liability if damage is confirmed. This reduces confusion, lowers financial stress for candidates, and protects public property.
Student Response and Legal Challenge
The DUSU elections affidavit was challenged twice this year in the Delhi High Court. Some students argued that the requirement of ₹1 lakh was unfair. They said most students cannot afford such a heavy deposit.
In response, they offered to submit an affidavit promising to pay fines if found guilty of defacement. The court discussions pushed DU to clarify that the bond is a surety only. No money needs to be deposited while filing nomination papers.
According to university officials, this clarification balances fairness with accountability. If a student is guilty, the amount recovered will match the damage. If no violation occurs, nothing is charged.
Monitoring and New Campaign Rules
Delhi University has announced new steps to monitor campaigning this year. Faculty members will act as observers. They will visit colleges, metro stations, and surrounding areas to check for defacement. Their reports will decide if fines should be imposed under the DUSU elections affidavit.
Additional measures include:
- Creation of nine “walls of democracy” where campaigning is allowed.
- Night patrolling to prevent wall posters and illegal banners.
- Police support for enforcing rules and maintaining order.
- Use of eco-friendly slogans and creative campaign methods.
As per sources, some students are already writing slogans on dry leaves. This symbolic act highlights the shift to green and clean campaigning.
Clean and Green Push for 2025
The DUSU advisory committee has repeatedly stressed that this year’s elections will be “green and clean.” The move is in line with the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations, which regulate student union polls across India.
Social media posts suggest many students support the eco-friendly drive. They feel it reduces waste and improves the university’s public image. Past elections were often criticized for littered posters and damaged walls. This year’s system may improve credibility and student participation.
Analysis: Why the DUSU Elections Affidavit Matters
The DUSU elections affidavit is more than just paperwork. It represents a cultural shift in student politics at one of India’s largest universities.
- Accountability: Candidates are held responsible for their campaign actions.
- Affordability: No large deposit is needed, making polls accessible.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly methods encourage responsible youth politics.
- Precedent: DU elections often influence other student bodies nationwide.
Historically, DUSU has been a training ground for national politicians. Leaders from these elections later entered mainstream politics, including Parliament. The affidavit system could therefore shape the style of future youth campaigns in India.
Experts also note that the surety bond balances two goals: protecting public property and keeping elections open for all students. It shows that universities can regulate campaigns without suppressing free expression.
Outlook for the 2025 Polls
With polling scheduled for September 18, the new system will face its first big test. Observers, faculty, and police will track how students adapt to these changes. The goal is a fair, safe, and eco-friendly election.
If successful, the DUSU elections affidavit model may become a benchmark for other universities across India. It could inspire cleaner, more creative, and responsible campaigns.
Conclusion
Delhi University has clarified that the DUSU elections affidavit requires only a surety, not an upfront deposit. The system protects public property, ensures accountability, and supports affordable participation.
As the 2025 elections approach, all eyes will be on how this affidavit shapes campaigning. The outcome may not only impact Delhi University but also influence student politics across the country.
