Kharge calls for Amit Shah's resignation, alleges police action against students is 'vendetta'

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday demanded the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, accusing the government of pursuing a 'vendetta' against students through the filing of FIRs (first information reports) in connection with recent protests.

Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Kharge said that the police action against students was undemocratic and amounted to an attempt to stifle dissent. He claimed that FIRs were being lodged against students merely for participating in peaceful demonstrations, and that the Home Minister should take responsibility for the actions of the central police forces.

'This is not justice. This is vendetta. When students raise their voice against injustice, they are met with lathicharge and cases. The Home Minister cannot absolve himself of this responsibility. He should resign,' Kharge said.

The Congress leader did not specify which particular FIRs he was referring to, but his remarks come amid reports of students being booked in several states over protests related to examinations, caste issues, and other matters. In recent weeks, student groups have held rallies in various cities, and police have in some instances registered cases against organisers and participants.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has not yet officially responded to Kharge's demand. However, government sources said law and order is a state subject, and any police action taken by state governments cannot be attributed to the Union Home Ministry unless central forces were involved.

Political observers note that such demands are routine in Indian politics and often reflect the adversarial nature of the opposition-ruling party relationship. Kharge's statement is likely to intensify the political debate over civil liberties and the handling of student protests.

The National Students' Union of India (NSUI), the student wing of the Congress, has also issued a statement supporting Kharge's remarks and calling for the withdrawal of all 'frivolous' cases against students.

Meanwhile, student rights activists have urged the government to ensure that the right to peaceful protest is protected. They argue that indiscriminate registration of FIRs can have a chilling effect on freedom of expression.

This is a developing story. More details are awaited.