The Congress party staged a protest in Shivajinagar, Pune, on Sunday against the alleged NEET paper leak and mismanagement of examinations by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Members of the party's youth wing conducted a Mashal Morcha (torch march), which commenced at Congress House and concluded at Balgandharva Chowk.
Protest Highlights
Udaybhanu Chib, national president of the Youth Congress, stated, "The future of aspiring doctors is in the dark due to the exam paper leak. The education minister and the ruling government have failed to address the issue. The education minister should resign." He emphasized that the alleged leak had not only impacted students but also caused immense distress to their families. Chib added that the party would continue its agitation until the government acts on its demands.
Symbolism of the Torch March
According to the protesters, the torch march symbolized the need to bring hope and justice to students affected by irregularities in the examination process. Demonstrators raised slogans against the government and the education minister during the march.
Allegations of Student Distress
The protesters also alleged that the controversy surrounding the examination had pushed some students into severe distress, with reports of student suicides. Akshay Jain, a Congress leader who participated in the agitation, said, "The government and the education department are responsible for the mismanagement that has plagued the examination system. Students have suffered significant mental stress because of these issues."
Security Arrangements
Police officials confirmed that adequate security arrangements were made to ensure the protest remained peaceful.
