**Aam Aadmi Party’s Student Wing Launches for DUSU Elections**
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is set to introduce its student wing, the Association of Students for Alternative Politics (ASAP), in the upcoming Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections. This initiative aims to liberate campus politics from the influence of money and muscle power. AAP leaders emphasize that the focus is on empowering ordinary students to participate in elections based on merit rather than financial resources.
Saurabh Bharadwaj, an AAP MLA, highlighted the involvement of many young individuals in the student organization who are committed to reforming student politics. He stated, “If you want to contest college elections but don’t have money, come from an ordinary family, and are capable, we will select you based on your capability and field you.” Bharadwaj also emphasized the importance of transparency in the election process, announcing that applications from Delhi University students will be accepted from August 15 to August 25.
**Candidate Selection Process**
Students interested in running for college union or DUSU elections under ASAP must follow a three-step process:
1. Complete the registration form by August 25.
2. Submit a one-minute video or audio explaining their motivation for contesting and the issues they plan to address.
3. Provide a written agenda of 200–500 words.
To qualify, candidates must gather support from at least 10 students across five different sections for college union elections, while DUSU candidates need 50 supporters from five different colleges. Additionally, candidates must maintain full attendance, have no backlogs, and possess a clean academic record.
Bharadwaj remarked, “Students have a lot of idealism, and we will try to ensure that this idealism doesn’t fade after watching a movie in PVR.” AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha added that the student wing is taking a significant step towards reforming national politics by starting with campus elections, asserting that cleaning up the country’s politics must begin with student politics.
**The Importance of DU Elections**
Delhi University elections, particularly for DUSU, have historically served as a training ground for future leaders in national politics. Major political parties, including the ABVP (Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad) linked to the RSS and the Congress’s NSUI (National Students’ Union of India), actively participate in these elections, which often influence youth politics across the country. However, DU’s campus politics has faced criticism for excessive spending, the use of muscle power, and a lack of transparency.
Launched in May, ASAP aims to bring about a positive change in campus elections. While AAP already has a youth wing, the Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti (CYSS), ASAP will operate as a dedicated entity focused on mobilizing students around the principles of alternative politics, while CYSS will continue its activities in a more traditional manner.
**Conclusion**
The introduction of ASAP marks a significant development in Delhi University’s political landscape, aiming to foster a new generation of leaders committed to ethical and transparent politics. As the elections approach, the emphasis on merit and inclusivity could reshape the future of student politics in India.
**FAQ**
**What is the purpose of the Association of Students for Alternative Politics (ASAP)?**
ASAP aims to empower ordinary students to participate in campus politics based on merit, free from the influence of money and muscle power.
