Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday intensified his criticism of the Centre over the ongoing student protests linked to the alleged NEET paper leak, declaring that the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remains “non-negotiable.”
After meeting student representatives, Gandhi accused the government of suppressing peaceful protesters and said the concerns raised by students deserved a fair hearing. In a post on X, he reaffirmed his support for the protesters, stating that their three key demands, including Pradhan’s removal, could not be compromised.
‘Students are India’s future’
Addressing reporters, Gandhi described the protesting students as the future of the country and urged them not to lose hope despite police action and mounting pressure.
He alleged that government institutions were being used against students but maintained that peaceful democratic protests should be respected.
“They are the future of India, and no one can fight them. Narendra Modi is India’s past; the past can never fight the future,” Gandhi said.
He also encouraged students to remain united, asserting that they should continue raising their concerns without fear.
Rahul Gandhi demands apology from Prime Minister
The Congress leader further called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to apologise to students, alleging that they had been “beaten, attacked and disrespected” during the protests.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s recent remarks on education reforms, Gandhi argued that the immediate issue was accountability over the alleged examination irregularities rather than broader policy discussions.
He reiterated that the resignation or removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remained central to the protesters’ demands.
CJP says protest will continue
Meanwhile, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke welcomed activist Sonam Wangchuk’s decision to end his 26-day hunger strike but clarified that the student-led protest would continue.
Dipke said the organisation remains committed to its demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and insisted that any future dialogue with the Centre should take place at a neutral venue.
The remarks come even after the Centre reportedly offered written assurances on issues including discussions on examination reforms and a positive approach towards not filing cases against peaceful protesters.
