The highly anticipated Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections for 2025 have wrapped up, revealing a significant triumph for the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). The ABVP secured three of the four crucial central panel positions, with Aryan Maan leading the charge as the newly elected President. Meanwhile, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), backed by the Congress, managed to clinch one key victory, with Rahul Jhansla winning the Vice President’s seat.
Held on September 18 across North Campus, these elections saw a participation of 60,272 students from a total of 1.53 lakh registered voters, marking a respectable 39.36% turnout. This figure represents an increase from the 35.2% recorded in 2024, though it didn’t quite reach the 42% seen in 2023. The intense battle involved 21 candidates competing for the four top positions, clearly reflecting the deep-seated ideological divides and vibrant political energy within the university campus.
Counting the Votes and Announcing the Victors
After 18 meticulous rounds of counting, the following candidates were declared winners:
| Position | Winner | Student wing |
|---|---|---|
| President | Aryan Maan | ABVP |
| Vice President | Rahul Jhansla | NSUI |
| Secretary | Kunal Chaudhary | ABVP |
| Joint Secretary | Deepika Jha | ABVP |
The vote counting commenced promptly at 9 AM on Friday at the Convention Centre in North Campus. Following 18 rigorous rounds of tallying, conducted under stringent surveillance, the final winners were announced. These results unmistakably highlight the ABVP’s enduring stronghold and significant influence across Delhi University’s various campuses.
Clash of Ideologies: ABVP vs. NSUI on Campus
The long-standing rivalry between the ABVP, the student faction aligned with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and the NSUI, connected to the Indian National Congress, vividly reflects the broader national political landscape. The ABVP steadily reinforces its presence by advocating for right-leaning policies and cultural nationalism. In contrast, the NSUI champions itself as a progressive voice, focusing on critical issues such as student welfare, gender equality, and campus inclusivity.
This year’s presidential contest was particularly compelling. Aryan Maan of ABVP campaigned on pledges of improving student amenities, while Rahul Jhansla, the NSUI’s Vice President candidate, emphasized a platform of progressive reforms. The final outcome – a clear ABVP majority with NSUI securing a vital position – showcases both the established dominance and the persistent, competitive nature of student politics within the university.
National Significance: Why DUSU Elections Resonate Beyond Campus
Historically, DUSU elections have been a crucial stepping stone for aspiring national political leaders, with notable alumni such as the late finance minister Arun Jaitley and Congress stalwart Ajay Maken having emerged from its ranks. These elections are keenly observed far beyond the university gates, serving as a key indicator of youth sentiment and a practical arena for testing political tactics. The 2025 results, in particular, will be closely examined for clues regarding the evolving political preferences and trends among India’s dynamic young electorate.
The Road Ahead for DUSU’s New Leadership
With the new DUSU executive now preparing to take office, Delhi University anticipates elevated expectations concerning governance, student involvement, and welfare programs. Aryan Maan’s victory further solidifies the ABVP’s robust presence, simultaneously serving as a reminder that campus elections are often a vivid reflection of larger national political dynamics, where diverse ideologies, personal ambitions, and student well-being intertwine.
As the 2025–26 term officially begins, attention will now shift to how effectively this new leadership will transform its electoral pledges into concrete reforms and whether the NSUI can leverage its recent gains to build future momentum.