New Delhi, Sept 10: Tension gripped Delhi University’s Motilal Nehru College (South Campus) late last night as students staged a massive protest against the college administration, alleging deliberate cancellation of student union election nominations.
Students claimed that out of 14 nominations filed for the student union president post, 13 were rejected by the administration on the grounds of not meeting the 75% attendance criteria. Only one nomination was accepted, prompting allegations that the rule was enforced at the last minute to ensure an uncontested election.
Students Clash with Police, Raise Slogans
Angry students gathered inside the campus, raising slogans against the administration and blocking the principal’s car. The protest escalated into a minor scuffle between students and police, with students accusing officers of using force and mishandling female students. Protesters alleged that no lady constables were present at the spot, sparking further outrage.
Students Question Timing of Attendance Rule
Protesting students argued that the 75% attendance rule should have been applied from the beginning of the academic year and not weeks before the election.
One student said, “I represented the college in volleyball tournaments, which should count towards attendance, but my nomination was still rejected. Meanwhile, a candidate who barely attends classes is being allowed to contest.”
Others alleged that the rule was part of a planned strategy to disqualify contestants, leaving only one candidate to be declared president without competition.
Police Deployment and College Silence
Following the uproar, Delhi Police deployed additional forces outside the college gates to control the situation. Videos from the protest showed students chanting slogans like “Ekta Zindabad” while demanding reversal of the decision.
Despite the chaos, the college administration has not officially commented. Sources suggest that under the rules, only students with 75% or above attendance are eligible to contest elections.
Broader Context
With Delhi University student union elections scheduled across all colleges in the coming days, the controversy has sparked debate over transparency, fairness, and student representation in campus politics.
