Delhi HC Issues Notice on Re-election Request for KMC Student Union Vacancies
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Synopsis
On January 24, the Delhi High Court addressed a plea for re-elections for two vacant Central Councillor seats in the Kirori Mal College Student Union for the 2024-2025 term. This decision follows claims of violations of the Lyngdoh Committee guidelines, emphasizing the need for prompt election processes.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi High Court issued a notice for re-elections.
- Two Central Councillor seats are currently vacant.
- Petitioner argues violation of Lyngdoh Committee guidelines.
- Significant delays since November 25 declaration.
- Importance of free and fair elections highlighted.
New Delhi, Jan 24 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court has recently issued a notice addressing a plea that calls for the immediate re-election of two vacant Central Councillor positions within the Kirori Mal College Student Union for the term 2024-2025.
A panel led by Justice Sachin Datta has requested responses from Delhi University, its Chief Election Officer, Kirori Mal College (KMC), and other involved parties regarding this matter.
Daksha Bhardwaj, a student pursuing a B.A. in Sanskrit (Hons.), who ran for the President's position in the Kirori Mal College Student Union Election of 2024-2025, argued that the failure to conduct re-elections for the vacant seats is not only a breach of the Lyngdoh Committee guidelines but also an act of “grave injustice” against the student body.
The petition emphasized that the college management rendered the elections of the two Central Councillors null and void on November 25, resulting in these positions remaining unfilled. The petitioners allege that the college administration is neglecting to adhere to the Lyngdoh Committee Recommendations, which require re-elections to be held for vacant positions.
“It has been 48 days since the declaration of the vacant posts, yet the administration has not organized new elections as prescribed by the rules,” noted the petition, which was filed by advocate Ashu Bidhuri.
The petition further explained that according to the Lyngdoh Committee guidelines, if any key office bearer’s position becomes vacant within two months after elections, re-elections must occur. If not, the Vice President should be promoted to President, and the Joint Secretary to Secretary, as applicable.
Moreover, the petition stated that the role of Central Councillor is crucial within the student union, as these councillors are integral to the central council of the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU).
“The administration's actions are entirely arbitrary and contradict the principles of natural justice. This situation blatantly violates the traditions and practices upheld in other colleges of Delhi University and during DUSU elections. The petitioner has voiced grievances at the proper stage and to the appropriate authorities, yet there has been a total failure to act in accordance with the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations,” the petition outlined.
It also mentioned that the petitioner is facing significant challenges due to the unlawful actions of the authorities, which compelled him to seek intervention from the Delhi High Court to enforce compliance with their statutory obligations.
Additionally, it stated, “Elections for any body or office must be conducted in a manner that is free, fair, and transparent. Elections are fundamental to democracy. The authority designated by law to conduct such elections must operate independently, without any outside influences or considerations.”
