Kharge Criticizes PM Modi Over FIRs Against Student Protesters

In a recent statement, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has strongly criticized the Indian government for its actions against students protesting the alleged NEET paper leak. He accused the central administration of targeting these young individuals by filing First Information Reports (FIRs) and subjecting them to forced detentions following their demonstrations. Kharge's remarks come in the wake of a significant police crackdown on student protests that occurred on July 20, during a march organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The Congress leader emphasized that the government had previously assured students that no punitive measures would be taken if they ceased their protests, a promise he claims has now been broken. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demand the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, stating that the government's actions reflect a vendetta against the youth.

Kharge's allegations highlight a growing concern among opposition leaders regarding the treatment of student protesters. He pointed out that the government's response to the protests included the use of excessive force, such as batons and pellet guns, which he described as an unacceptable way to handle dissent. The Congress president expressed his outrage over the government's failure to uphold its commitments to the students, asserting that the youth had withdrawn their agitation based on the understanding that they would not face any repercussions. Furthermore, he raised alarms about the blocking of social media accounts belonging to young protesters and the harassment of female participants, which he termed as a form of intimidation. Kharge's comments reflect a broader sentiment of frustration among opposition parties regarding the government's handling of student issues and civil liberties.