DUSU campaigning turned violent near the Arts Faculty in North Campus on September 17th, with witnesses reporting significant fighting and damage to posters and vehicles.
Campaigning for the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections turned confrontational near the Faculty of Arts on September 16, the final day of campaigning, with reports of a clash involving campaigners and people travelling through the area.
At around 5 pm, ABVP supporters were seen campaigning near the Faculty of Arts, causing traffic congestion in the area. According to accounts from witnesses present, an altercation took place after a few occupants of a car approached the campaigners and asked them to clear the road or shift the campaign area.
The disagreement reportedly escalated from a verbal exchange into a physical confrontation. The occupants of the car were alleged by those present to have links with the NSUI, although their affiliation could not be independently established at the time of reporting.
The confrontation involved several individuals, with reports of physical assault and damage to vehicles. Witnesses also reported the use of objects, including wooden sticks, rods and PVC pipes, during the clash.
The situation subsequently spread beyond the initial confrontation. Campaign banners belonging to different student groups were reportedly torn down, while some vehicles and property in and around the area were damaged.
According to accounts from students present at the time, a group of campaigners also entered the Kirori Mal College girls’ hostel premises, where banners associated with other student groups were allegedly removed or damaged. Many of the groups were seen carrying sticks and pipes to clash with the other groups. A brief altercation took place between the group and a few people, where a jeep was allegedly damaged by the sticks. Students reported verbal exchanges and threats during the incident. A similar confrontation was subsequently reported in the boys’ hostel area.
The incident also raised concerns among students and members of the public who were recording the events on their phones. Some people present alleged that individuals attempting to record the clashes were confronted or prevented from doing so. Claims regarding the use of internet-jamming equipment could not be independently verified.
A journalist and cameraman from an independent media organisation were also present to cover the final day of campaigning. While recording the incident, the cameraman was reportedly confronted by individuals involved in the clash. The journalist accompanying him alleged that she was manhandled while attempting to intervene.
The sequence of events and the identities and affiliations of all those involved could not be independently established at the time of reporting. Further verification, including accounts from the student organisations, eyewitnesses, university authorities and police, would be necessary to establish responsibility for the incidents.
The incidents on the final day of campaigning have raised concerns over the conduct and safety of campaigning ahead of the DUSU elections. With multiple reports of physical confrontations, damage to property and alleged interference and harassment with those documenting the events. Questions are persistent regarding the circumstances that led to the clashes and the accountability of those involved.
Rajarshi Ghosh
Image Source: DU Beat
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