As the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections approach, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) finds itself under scrutiny for failing to fulfill several key promises made in previous campaigns. Despite being in power for multiple terms, students are increasingly questioning the effectiveness of ABVP’s initiatives and their commitment to addressing pressing student needs.
In their 2023 manifesto, ABVP outlined ambitious plans aimed at enhancing student welfare, including proposals for a “One Course, One Fee” structure for postgraduate students, improved safety measures, and the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICC) in every college. However, many students feel that these pledges have not been adequately realized. For instance, while ABVP promised to set up high-tech reading rooms and campus-wide Wi-Fi, these facilities remain largely unavailable or underdeveloped across many colleges.
One of the most contentious issues is the ongoing lack of reliable transportation options for students. The much-anticipated revival of the U-Special bus service, which had been suspended since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, was only reinstated shortly before the elections. Critics argue that this timing raises questions about the sincerity of ABVP’s commitment to student convenience and safety. “The bus service should have been restored long ago; this feels like a last-minute political move,” remarked a third-year student.
Additionally, promises regarding women’s safety have also come under fire. While ABVP candidates have emphasized their dedication to creating a safer campus environment—such as pledging to establish women’s hostels and install sanitary napkin vending machines—many students argue that these measures are insufficient given the persistent safety concerns on campus. Instances of harassment and inadequate responses from authorities have left many female students feeling vulnerable.
Moreover, ABVP’s focus on job fairs and skill development programs has not translated into tangible opportunities for students. Despite claims of organizing large-scale job fairs, many students report a lack of follow-through and actual employment prospects resulting from these initiatives. “We hear about job fairs every year, but they rarely lead to meaningful employment,” said a final-year student.
The National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), ABVP’s main rival in the elections, has capitalized on these shortcomings by promising to implement menstrual leaves for women students and improve mental health support services. NSUI leaders have openly questioned ABVP’s track record, stating that their failure to deliver on past promises demonstrates a lack of genuine concern for student welfare.
As the elections draw near on September 27, students are increasingly vocal about their frustrations with ABVP’s unfulfilled commitments. The growing sentiment among voters is that promises made during election campaigns should be backed by accountability and visible results throughout the academic year. With a critical eye on ABVP’s past performance, many students are looking for a change in leadership that prioritizes their needs over political rhetoric. The outcome of this election will not only determine DUSU’s leadership but also signal whether students are ready to hold their representatives accountable for their promises.
