New Delhi, September 18 (IANS) The voting for the students’ union (DUSU) elections of Delhi University began with enthusiasm in the North and South campus on Thursday. As a mid-day, the approximate voters were about 12 percent of the voting, with long queues in many colleges despite the humid weather conditions.
This year, the demands of the student have taken the center stage in the elections. The major issues raised by the student community include the introduction of Delhi Metro concession pass, affordable hostel housing, better infrastructure, better sports facilities, sanitation, reliable water supply and high speed Wi-Fi.
The electoral battle is terrible, in which nine candidates have contested for the prestigious post of DUSU President.
In particular, three contestants have women – marking a significant change in gender representation.
Both the major student organizations, the National Students Union of India (NSUI) and the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) have fielded women candidates, guessing that Nupur Sharma’s long -lasting record, which became the last woman Dusu president in 2008, may eventually break.
On polling day, Congress spokesperson Ragini Nayak visited the North Campus while rally a support for NSUI.
“The voice of NSUI echoes not only in the premises but also in Delhi,” he said.
“We are convinced to sweep all four seats. Our candidates have constantly raised student-centrifugal issues, and we will continue this fight beyond Delhi-even in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections,” he said.
Campus students expressed a mixture of hope and concern for IANS.
A student told IANS, “We are supporting ABVP as they are always standing for student welfare.”
“People are excited. This year candidates have a strong social media appearance, which helps to join voters better.”
Another student said, “Our college lacks clean washrooms, proper water supply and Wi-Fi. These basic features should be fixed. ABVP has focused on real issues.”
Highlighting the need for inclusion, a student said, “ABVP fielded two women candidates this year. We raised our voices for equality – whether they want to have a gender or background – and representation that reflects it.”
Concern about rising fees was also prevalent.
Another student said, “The DU fee ranges from Rs 15,000 to Rs 2 lakh, but JNU, where ABVP is in power, has fewer allegations. NSUI promised to reduce fees, but spent on ‘Chai’ on ‘Chai’ on 22 lakhs – where accountability is,” another student said.
Students will cast their votes in two shifts – for day classes for day 8.30 to 1 pm and 3 pm to 7.30 pm for classes.
Around 2.8 lakh students are eligible to vote in the election, for which the results will be declared on 19 September.
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JK/Red