The Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections are among the most closely watched student polls in the country, often seen as a reflection of larger political trends. On Thursday, September 18, 2025, counting of votes began at the University Sports Stadium, North Campus, after a day of polling that witnessed an impressive rise in student turnout compared to last year.
Higher Voter Turnout
This year, the university recorded a voter turnout of nearly 39.4%, marking an increase of about 4% from the previous year. The rise in participation is being viewed as a sign of growing student interest in campus politics, and it has added to the intensity of the contest. With thousands of students casting their votes, the outcome is expected to influence not just student governance but also the wider perception of youth politics in India.
Key Positions and Candidates
A total of 21 candidates are contesting across the four main posts: President, Vice President, Secretary, and Joint Secretary. These positions are not just symbolic but hold real administrative importance within the university setup, often acting as a bridge between students and the administration.
The most high-profile battle is for the President’s post, where the spotlight is on ABVP’s Aryan Maan and NSUI’s Joslyn Nandita Choudhary. Both candidates campaigned extensively across campuses, with rallies, classroom visits, and social media outreach. For Aryan Maan, a victory would strengthen ABVP’s grip on DU politics, while Joslyn Nandita Choudhary’s win would mark a major comeback for NSUI.
Counting Process
The counting process began early in the morning with the strong room being opened in the presence of candidates and their representatives to ensure transparency. Ballot boxes have long been replaced by electronic voting machines (EVMs), and counting is expected to go on for 18–20 rounds before the final results are declared. Officials say the entire process is likely to conclude by late afternoon or evening, depending on the pace of counting.
Security has been tightened at North Campus, with heavy deployment of Delhi Police and university guards. Entry into the counting area is strictly regulated, with only authorized personnel, media, and candidates’ representatives allowed inside.
Stakes and Expectations
The stakes this year are particularly high because DUSU elections have traditionally served as a training ground for future leaders of national politics. Several prominent politicians, including Union ministers and members of Parliament, began their journey from DUSU. Hence, the outcome often gains attention from political parties beyond the university.
The ABVP, affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has maintained a strong presence in Delhi University over the past few years. On the other hand, the NSUI, backed by the Congress party, is hoping for a revival, banking on student dissatisfaction with fee hikes, hostel shortages, and placement issues.
Apart from ABVP and NSUI, left-leaning groups such as AISA and SFI have also fielded candidates, though the primary contest remains a two-way battle between the big national student outfits.
Student Sentiment
Students across DU’s sprawling campuses have expressed a mix of enthusiasm and impatience as counting continues. Many are glued to live updates on their phones, while groups of supporters have gathered outside the stadium, chanting slogans in support of their candidates. For them, these elections are not just about politics but about shaping the policies that will directly affect their campus life—library access, hostel facilities, cultural festivals, and even exam reforms.
What Lies Ahead
As counting progresses, the early trends will be crucial in shaping the narrative. If ABVP takes an early lead, it could consolidate its dominance, but a strong performance from NSUI could shift the momentum. Regardless of the outcome, the 2025 DUSU elections have already succeeded in re-energizing student politics at Delhi University.
By evening, Delhi will know who takes charge of the DUSU for the next academic session. For now, the atmosphere remains electric, with thousands waiting to see which student leader will rise to prominence in one of the country’s most politically active universities.
