Dharmendra Pradhan Accuses Congress Over CJP Protest
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has accused Rahul Gandhi and the Congress of exploiting students for political purposes as opposition leaders increased their presence at the CJP protest site at Jantar Mantar. The agitation centres on alleged examination irregularities and demands for greater accountability.
Pradhan Accuses Congress of Exploiting Students
Pradhan criticised the Congress protest near Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence, describing it as an attempt to create disruption during Parliament’s Monsoon Session.
He said the government remained fully prepared to discuss NEET and address genuine student concerns in Parliament. Pradhan alleged that Congress had chosen political confrontation despite being offered an opportunity for discussion.
Rahul Gandhi rejected the government’s position, claiming the protest became necessary after his request for a parliamentary debate on police action against demonstrators was not accepted.
Opposition Leaders Visit Jantar Mantar
Several opposition leaders visited the Jantar Mantar protest site and expressed support for the demonstrators. They included NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, Supriya Sule, Sanjay Raut, Arvind Sawant and representatives from Left parties.
The leaders met protesters following clashes during the CJP’s attempted march towards Parliament. Congress leaders had separately staged a sit-in near the Prime Minister’s residence before being removed and briefly detained by police.
CJP Protest Continues in Delhi
CJP supporters returned to Jantar Mantar after the confrontation despite tents and sections of the protest stage being removed. The movement continues to demand Pradhan’s resignation, examination reforms and compensation for families of students allegedly affected by the NEET controversy.
Delhi Police said protesters displayed violent and aggressive behaviour during the march, resulting in injuries to police personnel and demonstrators. Police also reported damage to government vehicles and public property.
CJP representatives have maintained that the agitation will continue until the government provides a substantive response to their demands.
