DU Drops Mandatory Rs 1 Lakh Anti-Defacement Bond for DUSU Elections

NEW DELHI — Delhi University has removed the mandatory Rs 1 lakh anti-defacement surety bond that had been introduced last year for candidates contesting the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections.

Instead of the monetary bond, candidates participating in the elections this year will be required to sign a formal affidavit agreeing to adhere strictly to anti-defacement regulations. These rules fall under the framework of the Lyngdoh Committee Guidelines, National Green Tribunal (NGT) orders, and the Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Property Act.

The university had faced criticism over the earlier requirement, which mandated that parents or guardians give consent to a student's candidature, stand as financial surety, and submit their personal bank details. Several student groups voiced strong objections to the condition, arguing that demanding such financial guarantees would discourage candidates from economically weaker backgrounds from participating in the democratic process.

Addressing the shift in policy, an official confirmed that candidates will no longer face any monetary conditions to enter the race. Students will not be required to furnish any financial undertaking or meet any financial prerequisite for signing the affidavit, the official stated.

The rule had previously been challenged in court. Following legal proceedings, Delhi University clarified its position before the Delhi High Court, confirming that candidates were not required to deposit the Rs 1 lakh amount and that an affidavit alongside a security or surety arrangement would be sufficient.

The rollback of the financial requirement comes as the university officially released the schedule for the upcoming DUSU elections on Thursday.