DUSU Election Violence: ABVP & NSUI Clash at Kirori Mal College

DUSU Election Tensions Explode: ABVP and NSUI Members Clash at Kirori Mal College

A major scuffle between rival student groups rocked Delhi University on the final day of campaigning, just hours before the DUSU polls.

NEW DELHI, India – September 16, 2025 –

Delhi University witnessed high drama and violence on Tuesday as prominent student groups, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), clashed at Kirori Mal College (KMC) on the final day of campaigning for the DUSU elections. The altercation erupted shortly before Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai’s scheduled arrival to campaign for NSUI candidates.

The incident has significantly heightened tensions on a campus already on edge ahead of the September 18 polls. Videos of the scuffle quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread concern over campus safety and the increasingly polarized campaign environment.

Accusations Fly After Scuffle

According to NSUI, the fight broke out when ABVP members allegedly attacked their supporters in an attempt to disrupt the event planned with Ajay Rai. The student body condemned the incident as an act of "hooliganism." In a video message following the clash, Ajay Rai expressed solidarity with his party's student wing, accusing the ABVP of being rattled by the "overwhelming support NSUI is receiving."

Both student organizations have publicly blamed each other for instigating the violence. The arrival of Delhi Police on campus was required to de-escalate the situation and prevent further conflict.

Security Tightened Across Campus

The clash has prompted a severe security crackdown across Delhi University. The administration has deployed paramilitary forces and increased police patrolling to maintain order. The Proctor’s office has also issued a stern advisory, flagging instances of candidates attempting to lure student voters with outings and reminding colleges of their accountability for student safety.

As the final hours of campaigning conclude, this violent episode has overshadowed the substantive issues of the election. With polling set for September 18 and results to be declared on September 19, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes and intense rivalry that define one of India’s most prominent student elections.