Before DUSU Elections NGT Tells Authorities to Keep it Paper- Free

Before the elections of Delhi University Students Union, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed university authorities not to waste paper in the form of posters, banners, and pamphlets during the elections in September.

NGT has directed the colleges to adhere to the recommendations of Lyngdoh Committee and take the adequate measure as to ensure paperless canvassing/campaigning during the elections. The tribunal has given two months of time to DU to introduce the environment-friendly mode of the campaign at the campus.

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The order came up for hearing after a petition was filed by a student for a paperless canvassing and environment-friendly modes of campaigning during the DU Students' Union poll.

It is to be noted that in 2015 a first- year student from Delhi University, Nithin Chandran had filed a petition seeking other modes of environment-friendly campaigning and canvassing during the poll. The student had expressed his surprise over how in the name of the election so much of paper can be wasted.

It is true that the abuse of paper finally adds to the pollution load- the NGT observed. The tribunal also reminded that part of the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations passed by the Supreme Court (SC) should be implemented during the elections in all universities and colleges.

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Other important points of the order-

• Utilise handmade posters at certain notified places, at least two on each campus
• Only allow candidates contesting elections or their pre-notified student agents
• Strictly enforce the Lyngdoh Committee recommendations.
• Frame rules and regulation, make provisions even to the extent of disqualifying the contestants.