Overview of the DUCSU and Hall Union Election Campaign Rules
The upcoming elections for the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and Hall Union have set clear guidelines to ensure a fair and orderly campaign process. The Election Commission has outlined specific rules that all participants must follow, with the campaign period starting from tomorrow and ending at 10:00 pm on September 7. Voting is scheduled for September 9, marking the culmination of this structured electoral process.
Guidelines for Campaigning Activities
Campaigning within the university area is strictly regulated. Only voters and candidates are allowed to engage in any form of campaigning, either supporting or opposing a candidate. This rule aims to maintain order and prevent unauthorized interference in the election process.
In terms of promotional materials, black-and-white posters, leaflets, and handbills are permitted. Candidates may also use their own black-and-white photographs as part of their campaign. However, the use of other images is entirely prohibited. Additionally, no posters, leaflets, or handbills can be affixed to structures, walls, vehicles, fences, trees, or any standing objects within the university or hall areas. This measure is intended to preserve the cleanliness and appearance of the campus environment.
Restrictions on Visual Campaigning
Candidates are not allowed to write, print, engrave, or draw any content using ink, lime, or chemicals on walls or vehicles. These restrictions apply to all forms of visual campaigning to ensure that the university remains free from graffiti and unsanctioned messages.
Female candidates are permitted to campaign in certain designated areas such as students’ rooms, verandas, guest rooms, hall canteens, dining rooms, auditoriums, and food corners. However, they are restricted from entering reading rooms. Male candidates, on the other hand, can only campaign in the auditoriums or guest rooms of female halls as specified by the hall administration.
Meeting and Gathering Regulations
No meetings, gatherings, or election campaigns may be held in locations where teaching or examination activities might be disrupted. This ensures that academic operations remain unaffected during the election period.
Each candidate or panel is allowed to hold one projection meeting in each hall and three in the university. To do so, they must obtain permission from the hall administration at least 24 hours in advance, specifying the date and time. No public meetings, street meetings, gatherings, or stage setups will be allowed on roads within the university campus if they obstruct the movement of the public, teachers, or students.
Prohibited Actions and Consequences
Provocative statements, speeches, and unruly behavior are not permitted during the campaign. Furthermore, no damage may be done to any opponent’s campaign materials. Any violation of these rules could lead to severe consequences.
Additional Restrictions and Penalties
Candidates participating in the election are prohibited from engaging in any service-oriented work centered around Dhaka University, distributing gifts, hosting receptions, providing financial assistance, or similar activities until September 10, 2025. This restriction is meant to prevent undue influence on voters.
If the election code of conduct is violated, the concerned Returning Officer will take action upon receiving a written complaint and after a thorough investigation. In some cases, the Returning Officer may also take immediate action without waiting for a formal complaint.
Violations of the election code can result in fines up to 20,000 taka, cancellation of candidacy, expulsion from the university, or other punishments under state or university law. These measures emphasize the importance of maintaining integrity and fairness throughout the election process.
