Opposition parties on Monday launched a coordinated attack on the government in both Houses of Parliament, demanding an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged police brutality against students during recent protests. The opposition accused the government of suppressing dissent and violating constitutional rights.
Opposition Leaders Unite
Leaders from the Congress, Trinamool Congress, and other parties raised slogans and staged a walkout in the Lok Sabha after Speaker Om Birla rejected their adjournment motion. In the Rajya Sabha, Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar allowed a discussion on the matter, but opposition members insisted on a direct apology from the Prime Minister.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said, “The police actions against students amount to state-sponsored violence. The Prime Minister must apologize to the nation and to the students.” He pointed to video evidence showing police officers using batons and water cannons against peaceful protesters.
Government’s Counter
Union Minister Rajnath Singh responded in the Lok Sabha, defending the police actions as necessary for maintaining public order. “The government respects the right to protest, but violence cannot be tolerated. The law is taking its own course,” he said. He also emphasized that a committee has been formed to investigate the incident and will submit a report within three weeks.
Despite the government’s stance, opposition parties remained adamant. According to sources, at least 30 opposition MPs have submitted a notice for a no-confidence motion against the government, citing the police brutality issue as a key reason.
Student Protests Across India
The issue stems from protests held last week at several universities, including JNU and Jamia Millia Islamia, against a new education policy. Students were demanding its rollback when police intervened. Reports indicate that over 50 students were injured and 200 were detained. The opposition claims that the police used excessive force without provocation.
“We have video evidence showing students sitting peacefully when the lathi charge began,” said senior advocate and Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi. “This is not a law and order issue; it is an attack on democratic values.”
Political Implications
With the winter session of Parliament already witnessing frequent disruptions, this issue threatens to further stall legislative business. The opposition’s insistence on a PM apology indicates a strategy to corner the government ahead of key state elections. Political analysts suggest that the opposition is using this as a rallying point to unify anti-government forces.
Meanwhile, student organizations have announced a nationwide strike next week, demanding justice and the resignation of the Union Home Minister. The government has urged calm and promised a thorough probe.
