Centre Invites Student Group for Talks; Protesters Reject, Seek Neutral Venue
The Central Government has reiterated its commitment to dialogue with student protesters, extending multiple formal invitations for discussions, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said on Thursday. The protests, led by a student group known as the CJP, continue at Delhi's Jantar Mantar over irregularities in the NEET-UG exam.
Speaking to ANI, Mr. Singh stated that he and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda are ready for discussions at Mr. Nadda's residence or office, without any time limit. 'This is part of the series of continuous steps taken by the government for the welfare of students. Humbly, I appeal to you all to come and have discussions,' he said. Mr. Singh noted that four invitations have been extended since Wednesday.
The CJP has rejected the offer. Addressing the crowd at Jantar Mantar, spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the group declined to hold talks at Mr. Nadda's office or residence. 'The ministers told us not to call them to Jantar Mantar since people are very angry and they won't be able to come there. We offered to hold talks at a neutral venue,' Mr. Ranka said. The group insists on discussions at Jantar Mantar or a neutral nearby location. 'We have told the government that talks will only proceed if they offer something concrete; otherwise, don't waste our time,' he added.
The government's outreach comes as large-scale protests continue at Jantar Mantar, led by the CJP and other student organisations. The protesters demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following a series of exam irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leak. Earlier this week, Mr. Nadda met with a CJP delegation to hear their demands, which also include compensation for affected students.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first direct comments on the protests, said the government has decided to set up fast-track courts for paper leak cases. In a post on X, he stated, 'We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks.'
