New Delhi, Sept. 3 -- The Delhi High Court on Thursday ruled that candidates contesting the upcoming DUSU elections need not have their parents stand as surety for the Rs 1 lakh bond required by Delhi University. Justice Jasmeet Singh said the surety could be furnished by anyone, including a guardian, who has the financial means to pay the amount.
The court was hearing a plea by AISA activists Ananya Raturi and Akshat Shikhar challenging the election affidavit requiring parental or guardian consent and a Rs 1 lakh surety. The affidavit requires candidates to indemnify the university or college for violations of election guidelines, including defacement of property.
DU defended the provision, saying it was also in place during the 2025 elections and was intended to prevent damage to college property during campaigning. The court observed that election periods are chaotic and college walls are often left in poor condition afterwards.
AISA argued that the requirement undermines the autonomy of adult students and could disproportionately affect women and financially independent candidates. The organisation also criticised the financial burden imposed by the indemnity requirement.
The DUSU elections are scheduled for September 18, with counting and results on September 19.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.