The Delhi High Court on Friday directed that no victory processions be held after the declaration of Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) election results, either on roads or within colleges and hostels.
A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia directed the Delhi Police to ensure strict compliance, warning that any violation would invite criminal and administrative action and also amount to contempt of court.
The Court also took note of alleged violations of its earlier directions and the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations during the ongoing election campaign. It said exemplary damages may be imposed on student organisations and candidates.
The Bench issued notice to all 140 DUSU candidates and prominent student organisations, seeking their response on why they should not be saddled with damages.
The Court further directed the police not to hesitate in taking action against violators merely because they were students. It asked the police to take all criminal proceedings already initiated to their logical conclusion.
The Bench was hearing a petition filed by advocate Prashant Manchanda, seeking strict enforcement of the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations, anti-defacement guidelines and the DUSU election code of conduct during the 2026-27 elections.
Manchanda had alleged incidents of violence, vandalism and clashes, including the alleged entry of outsiders into college campuses and incidents involving gunshots. He also alleged that campaigners used vehicles without number plates, tractors, luxury cars and oversized mascots, causing traffic disruptions around Delhi University.
The Court had on Thursday criticised the authorities over their alleged failure to control violence and hooliganism and warned that vote counting could be halted if effective action was not demonstrated.
On Friday, Delhi Police and Delhi University submitted status reports detailing action taken, including FIRs, vehicle impoundments and arrests.
The Court observed that DU’s administrative measures did not appear to be acting as a sufficient deterrent and decided to proceed with the issue of collective electoral damages against candidates and student organisations.
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