Pamphlets on the ground, reels on the screen: DUSU poll campaign ends

Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) concluded its poll campaign on Wednesday, with campaigns shifting from pamphlets and rallies to online viral reels and social media engagement. Protests over paper leaks and the Satya Niketan PG building collapse, which killed five students, prompted student groups to rethink their strategies.

The final day saw a mix of traditional and digital campaigning methods, with the ABVP releasing a video featuring its panel of candidates. The National Students Union of India (NSUI) took a unique approach by having the parents of its Adivasi presidential candidate Vijay Shankar Meena appeal to students outside their home district.

Social media proved decisive in this generation's voting decisions, with students questioning incumbents directly and demanding change on issues like rent and university-run hostels. However, the online campaign also revealed that money, muscle, and caste-based campaigning persisted, with intimidation and violence reported. The Left alliance criticized the exclusion of students from 22 women's colleges from central DUSU voting, while independent candidates like Deepanshu Shokeen drew attention with their unique platforms.

The campaign saw several firsts, including AAP's student wing fielding a visually challenged candidate. The Delhi University Vice-Chancellor issued warnings for tight security during the voting period, emphasizing the importance of safety amid the campaign's diverse strategies.