Court Takes Strong Stand On Election Violations
In a stern verdict, the Delhi High Court has summoned 16 candidates contesting the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU) elections on charges of vandalising public property. The court acted on the basis of a public interest litigation (PIL) that highlighted the rampant use of posters, banners and graffiti in violation of laws enacted to keep the city clean. Despite the electoral fervour, the court reminded candidates of the need to follow legal guidelines on defacement of property, which reached unprecedented levels during the 2024 DUSU elections.
Call For Candidates
On October 18, a bench headed by Justices Manmohan and Saurabh Banerjee had ordered these 16 candidates to appear in person on October 28. The move comes after the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and other civic authorities submitted reports highlighting defacement in areas under their jurisdiction, including the north and south campuses of Delhi University.
Unacceptable Cleaning Levels
While the university assured the court that 90% of the damage had been removed, the court said the university’s north and south campuses still “appear to be neglected.” The court not only sought immediate removal of the remaining posters but also repainting of the walls that were defaced during the election. Justice Manmohan emphasised that defacement of property by election candidates is not only a breach of public trust but also an affront to the legal system.
Liability For Damage
The Supreme Court’s decision also represents a turning point in holding candidates liable for election-related damages. The court ordered civic authorities such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Police to be vigilant in removing objectionable material and restoring areas to their original state. It also expressed dissatisfaction over the coordination between various agencies, including Delhi University and the MCD, and urged better implementation of the law.
Further, the court sought fresh status reports from Delhi University, MCD and Delhi Police on the steps taken to remove the distortion before the next hearing. The court’s decision highlights the growing public and legal pressure to maintain civic discipline even at the peak of political campaigns.
Widening Impact On Student Politics
The verdict serves as a strong reminder to student leaders, political organisations and prospective DUSU candidates. The court hinted at severe consequences, including the possibility of disqualifying candidates who do not comply with the order, explaining that elections cannot be an excuse for damaging public property.
The Supreme Court’s tough stand in maligning the 2024 DUSU elections could set an important precedent for future student elections across India. Not only does it call on young politicians to follow the law more strictly, it also sends a strong message to political organisations that support these campaigns.
Bottom Line: Weigh The options And Be Clear
The Delhi High Court’s intervention in the DUSU election campaign has highlighted the need for political accountability and responsible campaigning. The case highlights the tension that exists between democratic participation and the protection of public property, and reminds candidates and political parties of their broader social responsibilities. As candidates prepare for their arraignment on October 28, the message from the judiciary is clear: public spaces are not just canvases for political advocacy.
