The Delhi High Court on Tuesday expressed strong disapproval towards the Delhi University and related authorities for their lack of action against candidates who defaced public property during the ongoing Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections.
During a pointed hearing, the bench led by Chief Justice Designate Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela directed the university to immediately issue disqualification notices to those candidates involved in defacing public properties. Additionally, the court ordered the recovery of damages caused by the defacement.
In a firm tone, the bench stated, “You issue them disqualification notice today itself and also ask for recovery of money for defacement of properties. Delhi Metro and MCD should give the names of those involved to the Delhi University. Give the names of those who are defacing public property.”
The directive followed a plea by Prashant Manchanda, a practicing advocate, demanding stringent actions against the DUSU election candidates and student political groups responsible for vandalizing and soiling public and educational properties. Manchanda’s plea highlighted the urgent need for remedial action to preserve the aesthetic value of public spaces and uphold students’ rights to a clean educational environment.
Pointing out the widespread damage, the court criticized the inaction of the Delhi Police, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and other civic bodies, emphasizing their duty to enforce the law. “Delhi Police has to enforce the law and not us. If you don’t want to enforce the law, what can we do. If the university does not want to do anything, what can we do about this,” the judges remarked, shocked by the graffiti on police station walls.
The court lamented the lack of coordination among various departments, a recurring issue that hampers efficient governance and enforcement of law.
The hearing is set to continue on Wednesday, with the Chief Election Officer of DU expected to attend. The court aims to ensure compliance with guidelines designed to prevent property defacement during the DUSU elections for the academic year 2024-25.
