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The 2025 Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections concluded with a decisive outcome, as the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) claimed three out of four central panel posts. Aryan Maan, ABVP’s presidential candidate, emerged at the forefront, while the Congress-backed National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) secured the Vice President’s post through Rahul Jhansla.The elections, conducted on September 18 across North Campus, witnessed 1.53 lakh registered voters, of which 60,272 students cast their ballots. This translated into a 39.36% turnout, up from 35.2% in 2024, though still shy of the 42% recorded in 2023. The contest, featuring 21 candidates vying for four top posts, highlighted the continued intensity and ideological divide shaping campus politics.
Counting and results
Here’s a look at the candidates who emerged victorious after 18 rounds of counting:
Position | Winner | Student wing |
President | Aryan Maan | ABVP |
Vice President | Rahul Jhansla | NSUI |
Secretary | Kunal Chaudhary | ABVP |
Joint Secretary | Deepika Jha | ABVP |
Vote counting began at 9 AM on Friday at the Convention Centre in North Campus.
After 18 rounds of meticulous tallying under strict surveillance, the winners emerged, underscoring ABVP’s continued dominance on Delhi University campuses.
ABVP vs NSUI: Ideologies on campus
The rivalry between ABVP, the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and NSUI, affiliated with the Indian National Congress, mirrors national political currents. ABVP continues to consolidate its influence through advocacy for right-leaning politics and cultural nationalism, while NSUI positions itself as a progressive voice addressing student welfare, gender representation, and inclusivity.
This year, the presidential race drew particular attention, with Aryan Maan promising enhanced student amenities, while NSUI’s Vice President candidate Rahul Jhansla focused on progressive reforms. The results, showing a decisive ABVP sweep but NSUI holding one key post, underscore both the consolidation and competitiveness of student politics.
Why DUSU elections matter nationally
DUSU elections have long served as a launchpad for national political leadership, with alumni like late finance minister Arun Jaitley and Congress leader Ajay Maken rising through the ranks.
Beyond campus, these elections are closely monitored as a barometer of youth sentiment and as a testing ground for political strategies. The 2025 results will be scrutinized for insights into evolving trends among India’s young electorate.
Looking ahead
As the new DUSU executive assumes office, Delhi University faces heightened expectations for governance, student engagement, and welfare initiatives. Aryan Maan’s victory reinforces ABVP’s stronghold while reminding observers that campus elections remain a microcosm of broader political currents, where ideology, ambition, and student welfare intersect.With the stage set for the 2025–26 term, all eyes now turn to how this leadership will translate electoral promises into tangible reforms and whether NSUI can build momentum for the future.