Congress MPs protest in Parliament over alleged police action against student protesters

Members of the Congress party, led by general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a protest inside the Parliament House complex on Monday over claims of excessive force used by police against student demonstrators. The students had been agitating against the alleged leak of the NEET examination paper.

The protesters, carrying placards and a banner, gathered at the steps of the Makar Dwar of Parliament, raising slogans and demanding an apology from Home Minister Amit Shah. The Congress-led opposition has said it will continue to press the government on the issue, calling for action against those responsible for the alleged assault on students and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mr. Shah.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, wrote to Home Minister Shah seeking accountability for what he described as a “barbaric assault” on peacefully protesting students. In his letter, Mr. Gandhi asked whether the Home Minister had approved the use of “lethal force”, including pellet guns, against the protesters.

Mr. Gandhi emphasised that peaceful protest is a fundamental part of democracy and that the government has a responsibility to protect protesters and resolve their grievances through dialogue. “Such brutal violence destroys every norm, and has outraged the country. Youth and students, the future of our country, are demanding answers and accountability. Their voice will be heard,” he wrote.

The NEET paper leak allegations have sparked protests across several states, with students demanding a re-examination and a thorough investigation. The government has denied any cover-up and has said it is taking the matter seriously.

As of now, there has been no official response from the Home Minister or the government regarding the Congress’s demands. The opposition has indicated it will raise the issue in both houses of Parliament.