DUSU Elections: Rs. 1 Lakh Bond Doesn't Require Pre-Deposit, Only an Undertaking, Clarifies Delhi High Court - 2025-08-29

DUSU Elections: Delhi High Court Clarifies Rs. 1 Lakh Bond is an Undertaking, Not a Pre-Deposit

New Delhi – In a significant clarification that eases the path for student candidates, the Delhi High Court on Friday disposed of a writ petition challenging a mandatory Rs. 1 Lakh bond for contesting the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections. Justice Mini Pushkarna recorded the University of Delhi's submission that the clause does not require a pre-deposit of money, but only an affidavit or undertaking.

The decision brings relief to student aspirants, particularly those from economically weaker sections, who feared the bond would act as a financial barrier to participation in student politics.

The Case Overview

The petition, filed by DUSU election aspirants Anjali & Anr., challenged Clause ‘v’ of a notification issued by the University of Delhi on August 8, 2025. The petitioners, who belong to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) category, argued that the clause was unconstitutional and violated the Lyngdoh Committee Recommendations.

The contested clause mandated that every candidate must execute a bond of Rs. 1.00 Lakh to cover potential penalties for defacement or other violations of election guidelines by themselves or their supporters.

Arguments Presented

The petitioners’ counsel argued that the Rs. 1 Lakh bond imposed an "unprecedented financial barrier," making it impossible for students from humble backgrounds to contest the elections. They contended that the requirement was discriminatory and effectively barred them from exercising their right to participate in the student union.

The University of Delhi, in response, clarified its position following the court's query in a previous hearing. The university's counsel submitted that the notification was being misinterpreted. It was confirmed that the university only requires candidates to file a "simple affidavit/undertaking" with regard to the Rs. 1.00 Lakh bond.

Court's Clarification and Final Order

After hearing the university’s submission, the court moved to resolve the petitioners' primary grievance. The bench noted that the university's stand addressed the core concern, as it was now clear that no upfront monetary deposit was necessary.

In its final order, the court officially recorded the clarification:

"Considering the aforesaid statements, it is clarified that the petitioners, or any other students intending to contest DUSU Elections, are not required to deposit any money, at the time of contesting the Elections."

Satisfied with this clarification, the counsel for the petitioners agreed that their concerns had been fully addressed.

Implications of the Judgment

With this order, the Delhi High Court has effectively removed a potential obstacle for students wishing to contest the DUSU elections. The judgment ensures that financial capacity will not be a determining factor for eligibility, upholding the principle of fair and accessible participation in student governance. The writ petition was disposed of in light of the university's conclusive clarification.