Delhi University has asked all candidates contesting the students' union elections to sign an affidavit pledging to refrain from using dhols, loudspeakers, firecrackers or distributing pamphlets, both in open and closed premises, after the declaration of results, according to officials.
The affidavit also prohibits candidates from organising roadshows or rallies to celebrate their victory. According to the affidavit, failure to comply with these conditions can result in the cancellation of a candidate's victory or removal from their elected post.
The measure aligns with the existing election rules and comes amid an ongoing Delhi High Court case concerning the defacement of public property during the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) polls. Candidates are required to submit the affidavit by Sunday to the office of the Chief Election Officer.
The undertaking stated “… I shall not use or allow my supporters the use of dhols, loudspeakers, firecrackers and pamphlets in the open or closed premises of college/ department/institution/centre after the results”. Non-compliance with these measures could result in the nullification of a candidate’s victory or removal from their elected position, as per the affidavit.
The results will be declared on Monday after a delay of nearly two months due to court orders. The Delhi High Court had halted the declaration of results, originally slated for September 28, citing defacement caused during the campaign and instructing the university to address the issue.
Earlier this month, the Delhi High Court on Monday allowed the counting of votes in the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections from November 26, subject to clearance by the Delhi University regarding cleaning and repainting of defaced property.
The Bench of Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela noted that the intent of the present proceedings was to ensure the students recognised that the university property belonged to the public at large, and the students were entitled to use the same for a limited period.
