Piyush Goyal Attacks Rahul Gandhi Over PM Modi’s Youth Appeal
Union Minister Piyush Goyal has accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of feeling threatened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity among young Indians, escalating the political dispute over recent student protests.
Piyush Goyal Defends PM Modi’s Youth Outreach
Goyal said Rahul Gandhi was attempting to create distrust between PM Modi and the country’s youth because of the Prime Minister’s popularity among younger voters. He accused the Congress leader of politicising student concerns and spreading a misleading narrative.
The remarks followed criticism from Gandhi over PM Modi’s statement that he had forgiven young protesters who used abusive language against him during demonstrations over examination irregularities.
PM Modi had described those involved as “misled children” and argued that prolonged legal proceedings would not resolve the underlying problem. He also appealed to the public to adopt a forgiving approach towards them.
Rahul Gandhi Demands Apology to Students
Rahul Gandhi responded by saying India’s students did not need the Prime Minister’s forgiveness and were instead owed an apology. He cited paper leaks, cancelled examinations and alleged police action against demonstrators.
The Leader of the Opposition has repeatedly accused the government of damaging the education and recruitment system. He has also described PM Modi as anti-youth and demanded accountability for officials responsible for examination failures.
These remain political allegations disputed by the BJP-led government.
BJP Congress Clash Over Student Protests
The confrontation follows nationwide protests over alleged examination irregularities and demands for changes to India’s testing system. The agitation intensified after protesters attempted to march towards Parliament and the Prime Minister’s residence.
The government has announced stronger measures against paper leaks, including fast-track courts, while former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid the controversy.
Congress has portrayed the developments as a victory for protesting students. BJP leaders maintain that PM Modi remains committed to protecting students’ futures and accuse the Opposition of exploiting the issue for political gains.
