As the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections concluded on 19 September 2025, when more than 59,000 votes were polled for each of the four central posts in DUSU, disturbing inputs were received from women studying in DU’s North Campus at Miranda House about them being subjected to sexual harassment during the campaign.
Women students alleged widespread instances of sexual harassment on North Campus as electioneering for the student body polls was in full swing. They described being stalked, eve-teased, and catcalled by cadres of the leading parties contesting the DUSU elections and being followed in big, black SUVs, with tinted windows and non-Delhi number plates. They felt “unsafe and uncomfortable” on campus and claimed that while Delhi University authorities looked the other way, neither the college’s security guards nor the police intervened.
Women students asserted that the inaction by DU authorities has enabled hooliganism in the garb of electioneering. The frequent instances of harassment have created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety on campus, which is not only inconducive to focussing on their studies but also affects the mental health of women students who are unable to move around freely and participate in the election process.
The Delhi High Court on September 19 pulled up seven candidates, including newly elected DUSU President Aryan Mann and Secretary Kunal Chaudhary, for alleged violations of election code and questioned the use of luxury vehicles and extravagance during campaigning.
The serious question that remains unanswered is what is Delhi University’s responsibility in ensuring the safety of women, particularly during the election period.
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#poshlaws
#womenssafety