New Delhi: Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, met protesting students at Jantar Mantar on Saturday and later addressed a press conference, stating that the students had put forward three non-negotiable demands. He accused the Central Government of suppressing students’ voices and failing to protect their future.

Rahul Gandhi said the first demand of the students is the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He alleged that the minister had failed to fulfill his responsibilities and should be held accountable for issues affecting students. According to Rahul Gandhi, merely shifting the minister to another portfolio would not address the concerns raised by students.

He emphasized that students are demanding accountability in the education system and clear action from the government.

Demand for Action Against Those Responsible

Raising the issue of injuries sustained by protesters, Rahul Gandhi alleged that several students were hurt during police action and related incidents. He said those who allegedly planned or carried out these actions should face legal consequences and be held accountable.

Call for Prime Minister’s Apology

Rahul Gandhi said the third demand is that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should publicly apologize to students and the nation for the events surrounding the examination controversy and its handling.

Criticism of the Government

The Congress leader accused the government of taking administrative measures to curb student protests while failing to address flaws in the examination system. He claimed that metro stations, roads, shops, and internet services were restricted, but authorities failed to prevent question paper leaks.

Remarks on Social Media

Rahul Gandhi also criticized the government in a post on social media platform X, alleging that while students seeking their rights faced restrictions, the government was unable to stop examination paper leaks.

He said safeguarding students’ future is the government’s primary responsibility and called for concrete and accountable action to restore confidence in the examination system.