Communist Party of India (CPI) leaders staged a one-day hunger strike at Verka Dairy Chowk in Patti, Tarn Taran district, on Sunday, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protest, which drew several party leaders, was held in support of social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a prolonged fast over similar grievances.
Allegations of Corruption and Question Paper Leaks
Addressing the media, CPI leader Mahavir Singh Gill stated that the country is "plagued by corruption." He alleged that question paper leaks occur even before major examinations begin, thereby excluding deserving and meritorious candidates from the selection process. Gill claimed that such incidents have repeatedly happened in various examinations, including those conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). He specifically pointed to the recent NEET exam paper leak, which he said had led to the suicide of 14 youths across the country.
Allegations of Administrative Sabotage
The protesters alleged that the leakage of question papers in high-level examinations for administrative posts is being facilitated by influential individuals within government offices and corporate circles. They claimed this practice is weakening the country’s administrative system by enabling the selection of incompetent candidates to key positions. The CPI leaders held Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the BJP-led Central Government responsible for the alleged irregularities and the suicides linked to the NEET paper leak.
Demands for Action
The protesters demanded that the President of India dismiss the Union Minister from the Cabinet and initiate a criminal investigation into the deaths of the 14 youths. They called for strict punishment if those responsible are found guilty. The hunger strike featured prominent CPI leaders including Mahavir Singh Gill, Karaj Singh, Sewa Singh Uboke, Wazir Singh Paras, Dilbagh Singh Bamrah, Balkar Singh, Satnam Singh Bhullar, Gurdial Singh, Jagraj Singh, and Rohit Sharma.
Solidarity with Sonam Wangchuk
The protesters expressed solidarity with social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for several days over the same issue. They noted that his health is in a critical condition and warned that if any harm comes to him during his fast, the Central Government will be held responsible. They added that continued negligence could trigger a wider public movement with serious consequences.
