New Delhi, Sep 4 - Much of the usual hullabaloo was missing Friday as elections were held to the students union of Delhi University - one of India's most prestigious varsities. But many called it 'historic' what with more independent candidates and low key outfits, fewer noisy campaign vehicles and, above all, smooth polling.

The North Campus, which is the epicentre of political activities during Delhi University Students union polls (DUSU) polls, was almost quiet amid strict police vigilance.

Students began casting their vote soon after 8.30 a.m. at 50 designated polling centres and it continued till 12.30 in the afternoon. In evening colleges, it was conducted from 3-7 p.m.

Twenty-nine students were in the fray for four posts - president, vice president, secretary and joint secretary. Over 40,000 students from 54 colleges were eligible to vote.

'This year's election was historic. There were few leaders from NSUI (National Student Union of India) and ABVP (Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad) and this opened up opportunities for independents and low key student outfits in the campus,' Amulya Nidhi, a postgraduate student of political science, told IANS.

Many mainstream student outfit leaders were unable to participate in the polls this time as they violated election norms stipulated by the Lyngdoh Committee.

'I am very happy that the university authorities and the Delhi High Court took a strong stance on violation of the poll code. A large portion of students don't make noise and don't want a hullabaloo. It's a few with vested interest always make a noise,' added Amulya Nidhi, who studies in Ramjas College.

Some may say that the frenzy was missing this time but 'many of us believe it's good for the university. After casting my vote, I am feeling much happier this time,' he said.

Aditya Raj Kaul, another student in the north campus, said it's a 'great beginning'. 'The money and muscle power must be curbed. Let's see how long this trend continues. The Lyngdoh Committee suggestions on college elections was followed in a better way this time,' he said.

'I must say, this is historic and good for small student outfits.