New Delhi: Delhi University has directed all college principals to prevent defacement of property during the upcoming student union elections, following a Delhi High Court order.

In a circular dated August 27, the university asked principals to act as “anti-defacement heads” and ensure posters, banners, wall writings, and hoardings are not allowed within or around college premises.

The move follows a 2018 High Court order, reinforced in 2024, mandating strict measures against property defacement. DU has also set up a University Committee for Prevention of Defacement of Property (UCPDP) to monitor compliance across campuses. The panel includes DU Estate Officer Prof Bipin Kumar Tiwary, senior faculty, and representatives from Delhi Police, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, and municipal authorities.

Colleges must form committees including a senior faculty member and the local police station officer to monitor poll-related activities. They will organise sensitisation workshops, create “walls of democracy” for posters, and coordinate with police and civic bodies to prevent unauthorised campaign material.

Nomination forms must include an undertaking that candidates and supporters will not indulge in defacement, with violations possibly leading to disqualification.

The DUSU elections for 2025-26 are scheduled for September 18, with counting the next day. Last year, vote counting was withheld until defaced public properties were cleaned, with the court stating its aim was “reform, not punish.”

Other rules include anti-defacement affidavits at admission, limiting campaign posters to designated walls, banning rallies and loudspeakers, electronic campaigning only, and restricted entry for outsiders. DUSU office-bearers can book only three university venues for official events and cannot use guest houses or hostels.