Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday criticized India's education system, stating that it puts immense pressure on children, stresses them, and ultimately crushes them. Speaking at the 'Chhatron ki Goonj' Maha rally in Kota, Rajasthan, he emphasized that this approach is detrimental to the nation's future.
Rally Focused on Youth Issues
Gandhi, who is the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, addressed a large gathering of students preparing for competitive exams like NEET, JEE, and civil services. He described the event as non-political, dedicated to the struggles of young people seeking a better future. 'This is a meeting about you, about the young people who are struggling to get a future,' he said in his opening remarks.
Student Interactions at the Rally
During the rally, five students—three girls and two boys—were invited on stage to share their experiences. They discussed their motivations for pursuing NEET and JEE, their dreams, and the financial burden of exam preparation. Gandhi listened to their concerns and stressed the need for systemic change.
Congress Campaign for Education Reform
The 'Chhatron ki Goonj' rally is part of a broader Congress campaign to address issues like paper leaks and unemployment. The party plans to hold similar conventions across the country, led by the NSUI and Youth Congress, with Gandhi addressing rallies in Allahabad, Patna, and Delhi. The campaign demands accountability from Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and aims to build a better future for Indian students.
Kota, a major coaching hub, hosts nearly 1.2 lakh students preparing for competitive exams. The BJP has criticized the Congress outreach, suggesting it may distract students from their studies. However, Gandhi reiterated that the focus is on amplifying student voices and advocating for reforms.
