India, April 5 -- W ith top artists performing across colleges this fest season, Delhi University campuses have been buzzing with music and crowds. But as the calendar nears its finale, a standoff between the principal and student union has cast a shadow over Hansraj College's fest, Confluence, scheduled for April 8 and 9. The student union alleges that the college committee had initially asked them to raise sponsorships and then decide on an artist based on the funds collected. However, after securing sponsorships, they were informed just days before the fest that no artist would be permitted to perform. "Three months ago, we were told to raise funds and then bring in an artist within our budget. We raised around Rs.12 lakh and began talks with singer Navjot Ahuja," says student union president Abhijeet Singh. "Now we're being told that artists aren't allowed due to discipline concerns. We had even signed a memorandum giving us autonomy to plan the fest," adds another union member. Countering the claim, principal Rama says the idea of bringing in an artist was never formally discussed. "Even last year, we didn't have one. Such performances often lead to overcrowding and outsiders entering campus, which raises safety concerns. We have 60 cultural societies, and we would rather have them lead the fest," she says. The decision, the union claims, has also complicated matters with sponsors. "We may have to return the money as sponsors aren't keen without a headline act. This could affect the college's reputation. We wanted to make this year special and plan to protest," Singh says. Students, meanwhile, remain divided. "We go to other college fests for performances. Without an artist, it loses appeal," says Ronil, a second-year student. However, first-year student Kritika Lamba disagrees. "I'd rather watch our own theatre and dance societies perform. That's what makes our college stand out," she says....