<p>Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (August 06) broke his silence on the ongoing student protest in Jharkhand, saying governments must listen to students and reform the country's education system.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Replying to a question during an 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, the Congress leader said the protests reflect deeper problems in the education system. He claimed the current system has become expensive and "oppressive" and urged all governments to address students' concerns.</p><h2>Gandhi urges governments to act</h2><p>“Student protests in the country are happening against the education system. I have clearly said in Dehradun and Kota, and I am going to say in Allahabad as well that our education system has collapsed. It is expensive and oppressive. Every government must listen to students and take action to change the education system, whether it is a Congress government, the central government, or the Jharkhand government," Gandhi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His remarks came even as the Congress is part of the ruling coalition in Jharkhand. The party had already extended support to students protesting at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-z-gen-alpha-more-honest-than-current-generation-says-rss-chief-bhagwat-in-interaction-with-students-1786023696900">Gen Z, Gen Alpha not 'anti nationals', they are more honest than current generation, says RSS chief Bhagwat</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in the day, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also backed the protesters, saying his party stands with students and youth "whether it is Jharkhand, Punjab, Delhi or anywhere else".</p><p>The BJP, however, targeted the Congress over its stand. Koderma MLA Neera Yadav said, “The Congress puts up one mask when the stir is in Delhi and a different one for Jharkhand."</p>

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<h2>Jharkhand protest gathers momentum</h2><p>The protest began on July 25 under the banner of the JPSC JSSC Reforms Manch at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi. It has since emerged as one of the largest student-led movements in the state in recent years.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The protesters are demanding the cancellation of the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination and an independent investigation into alleged irregularities in the recruitment process. They have sought either a Central Bureau of Investigation probe or an inquiry by a panel of retired High Court judges from outside the state.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The agitation intensified after five protesters, including two women, joined Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha leader Devendra Nath Mahto in a hunger strike. Mahto has been fasting for the past five days, and concerns over his health have grown after his blood sugar and blood pressure levels dropped significantly.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi has also been vocal in support of students during the Cockroach Janta Party-led protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET UG examination, a movement that resulted in the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.</p>

Rahul Gandhi broke his silence on the Jharkhand student protest, calling for education reforms and urging governments to listen to students as the agitation over alleged recruitment irregularities continued.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (August 06) broke his silence on the ongoing student protest in Jharkhand, saying governments must listen to students and reform the country's education system. Replying to a question during an 'Ask Me Anything' session on Instagram, the Congress leader said the protests reflect deeper problems in the education system. He claimed the current system has become expensive and "oppressive" and urged all governments to address students' concerns. Gandhi urges governments to act “Student protests in the country are happening against the education system. I have clearly said in Dehradun and Kota, and I am going to say in Allahabad as well that our education system has collapsed. It is expensive and oppressive. Every government must listen to students and take action to change the education system, whether it is a Congress government, the central government, or the Jharkhand government," Gandhi said. His remarks came even as the Congress is part of the ruling coalition in Jharkhand. The party had already extended support to students protesting at Jaipal Singh Munda Stadium in Ranchi over alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations. Also Read: Gen Z, Gen Alpha not 'anti nationals', they are more honest than current generation, says RSS chief Bhagwat Earlier in the day, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also backed the protesters, saying his party stands with students and youth "whether it is Jharkhand, Punjab, Delhi or anywhere else". The BJP, however, targeted the Congress over its stand. Koderma MLA Neera Yadav said, “The Congress puts up one mask when the stir is in Delhi and a different one for Jharkhand."

<p>Rahul Gandhi broke his silence on the Jharkhand student protest, calling for education reforms and urging governments to listen to students as the agitation over alleged recruitment irregularities continued.</p>

Watch: Rahul Gandhi opens up on Jharkhand student protest for first time, says 'every govt must...'

<p>Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (July 29) alleged that the government prevented him from speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on the anti-paper leak bill. He also accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of authorising the use of force against student protesters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Addressing a press conference, Gandhi claimed that he was assured he could speak if he apologised. However, he said he would never apologise to the BJP or the RSS.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I asked the speaker to bring order to the house so that I could speak, but I was not allowed. The excuse was that I said something about Amit Shah, that he was responsible for the brutality that was carried out. I was given an assurance that if I apologise, I will be allowed to speak. I will never apologise to the BJP, RSS or any other person associated with them," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Congress MP alleged that police fired pellet guns at protesting students and claimed that Shah was responsible for the "brutality" against them.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The (protesting students) were shot with pellet guns. One boy who was shot with a pellet gun is most likely to lose his eye and may not be able to see. I have seen the AIIMS medical certificate, which shows that he was shot with pellet guns. Shock batons were used, not just normal lathis, lathis with nails. Where did the police get this idea from?" he asked.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi further alleged that police used "shock batons" and "lathis with nails" while cracking down on protesters, including women and minors.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Where did the police get this idea from? Lathis with nails beating women and minors," he said, adding that he had personally seen a police officer slap a protester.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-asks-supreme-court-to-overturn-83-million-e-jean-carroll-defamation-judgment-1785327343803"><strong>Trump asks Supreme Court to overturn $83 million E Jean Carroll defamation judgment</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Congress leader also claimed that he personally saw Shah directing police officers during the protest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"When we were at Parliament House, I saw with my own eyes Amit Shah calling the police officers. I saw Jitendra Singh getting call after call from Amit Shah. So it was pretty clear he was aware of what was going on," Gandhi claimed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove Shah as Home Minister over the police action against student protesters. He also demanded a probe into the alleged crackdown, which he said should be monitored by the Supreme Court of India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His remarks came hours after a heated exchange in the Lok Sabha, where he accused Shah of ordering the use of force against students protesting at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Lok Sabha passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, after a lengthy debate and sharp exchanges.</p>

Rahul Gandhi claimed he personally saw Amit Shah speaking to police officers during the student protests and alleged that the Home Minister was aware of the police action against protesters.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (July 29) alleged that the government prevented him from speaking in the Lok Sabha during a discussion on the anti-paper leak bill. He also accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of authorising the use of force against student protesters. Addressing a press conference, Gandhi claimed that he was assured he could speak if he apologised. However, he said he would never apologise to the BJP or the RSS. "I asked the speaker to bring order to the house so that I could speak, but I was not allowed. The excuse was that I said something about Amit Shah, that he was responsible for the brutality that was carried out. I was given an assurance that if I apologise, I will be allowed to speak. I will never apologise to the BJP, RSS or any other person associated with them," he said. The Congress MP alleged that police fired pellet guns at protesting students and claimed that Shah was responsible for the "brutality" against them. "The (protesting students) were shot with pellet guns. One boy who was shot with a pellet gun is most likely to lose his eye and may not be able to see. I have seen the AIIMS medical certificate, which shows that he was shot with pellet guns. Shock batons were used, not just normal lathis, lathis with nails. Where did the police get this idea from?" he asked. Gandhi further alleged that police used "shock batons" and "lathis with nails" while cracking down on protesters, including women and minors. "Where did the police get this idea from? Lathis with nails beating women and minors," he said, adding that he had personally seen a police officer slap a protester. Also Read: Trump asks Supreme Court to overturn $83 million E Jean Carroll defamation judgment The Congress leader also claimed that he personally saw Shah directing police officers during the protest. "When we were at Parliament House, I saw with my own eyes Amit Shah calling the police officers. I saw Jitendra Singh getting call after call from Amit Shah. So it was pretty clear he was aware of what was going on," Gandhi claimed. Gandhi has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove Shah as Home Minister over the police action against student protesters. He also demanded a probe into the alleged crackdown, which he said should be monitored by the Supreme Court of India. His remarks came hours after a heated exchange in the Lok Sabha, where he accused Shah of ordering the use of force against students protesting at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The Lok Sabha passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, after a lengthy debate and sharp exchanges.

<p>Rahul Gandhi claimed he personally saw Amit Shah speaking to police officers during the student protests and alleged that the Home Minister was aware of the police action against protesters.</p>

'Sack Amit Shah, order SC monitored probe': Rahul Gandhi renews attack over police action against protesters

<p>Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (Jul 29) alleged that Union Home Minister ordered the forces to use force against protesting students on Jul 20 in New Delhi. Though he did not name Union Home Minister Amit Shah while making his claims, he said that he was happy to see the fear due to which Shah was not attending the session. Alleging that he was the one who put "pellets in the blood” of the students, Rahul Gandhi added that he does not have courage to face the people now. As ruckus broke out in midst of Gandhi's speech, the Lok Sabha was adjourned by Speaker Om Birla till 2.30 pm.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/was-cjp-not-controlling-the-protest-what-spokesperson-ashutosh-ranka-told-wion-after-pradhan-s-resignation-1784988293331">Was CJP not controlling the protest? What spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka told WION after Pradhan's resignation</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Rahul Gandhi claimed, "I am very happy today to see that he so called Home Minister of this country does not have the courage to come and sit here... why is the Home Minister not here today? The Home Minister is not here today because he is scared. The Home Minister authorised the shooting of our students. He put pellets into the blood of our students. He ordered the students of India to be shot."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/humour-people-power-and-a-political-newbie-how-india-s-gen-z-protest-used-social-media-to-break-the-traditional-agitation-playbook-1785140443421">Humour, people-power and a political newbie: How India's Gen Z protest used social media to break the traditional agitation playbook</a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🔺The Home Minister ordered the shooting of our students.<br>🔺He put pellets into the blood of our students.<br>🔺He ordered the students of India to be shot.<br><br>: LoP Shri <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> in Lok Sabha <a href="https://t.co/DWrjb4RnRH">pic.twitter.com/DWrjb4RnRH</a></p>&mdash; Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://x.com/INCIndia/status/2082379269951623394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Before making his big claim, the Congress MP had dismissed former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's role in Education ministry, stating that the system has been hijacked by the RSS. He alleged that RSS ideologues were appointed as vice-chancellors across several central universities. He also claimed that RSS wanted to turn students into “andhbhakts” and claimed that this was what the protesting students were fighting against.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Recollecting his conversation with a student, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi says, &quot;She said the student wears the truth on his/her chest proudly. I said, what about the other type? She said the other type requires an image. It requires an image and as the image is not true… <a href="https://t.co/kwHKlDXKnm">pic.twitter.com/kwHKlDXKnm</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2082375804743541048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>BJP demands apology</h2><p>Interrupting the Congress MP as he made allegations against the Home Minister, Union Minister and BJP MP Kiren Rijiju demanded his apology if he does not have proof for his claims. "Had Rahul Gandhi not used unparliamentary word, nobody would have objected. I believe that he is using a word in the name of a student, but it is he who is using it...He cannot use unparliamentary word, it should be expunged..." The Minister again interrupted Gandhi and said, "Can I say that Rahul Gandhi has committed murder?" He accused Gandhi of not calling for an inquiry but directly claiming that Home Minister order to fire. "How can you say such a thing? Do you understand how serious this allegation is?... Rahul, this is very serious. You will have to apologise. Either clarify your statement or withdraw your words. You have made a very serious and false allegation. This is extremely serious. Please do not do this. What you have said is completely wrong..."&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Delhi: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju says, &quot;...Rahul Gandhi did not call for an inquiry; he directly spoke about an order to fire. How can you say such a thing? Do you understand how serious this allegation is?... Rahul, this is very serious. You will have to apologise. Either… <a href="https://t.co/eIRoWqqnEQ">pic.twitter.com/eIRoWqqnEQ</a></p>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://x.com/ians_india/status/2082385771030311306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Rahul Gandhi accused Amit Shah of avoiding the Lok Sabha and alleged that the Home Minister ordered firing on student protesters. He also claimed the RSS controls education through university appointments and said protesting students were fighting against its influence.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (Jul 29) alleged that Union Home Minister ordered the forces to use force against protesting students on Jul 20 in New Delhi. Though he did not name Union Home Minister Amit Shah while making his claims, he said that he was happy to see the fear due to which Shah was not attending the session. Alleging that he was the one who put "pellets in the blood” of the students, Rahul Gandhi added that he does not have courage to face the people now. As ruckus broke out in midst of Gandhi's speech, the Lok Sabha was adjourned by Speaker Om Birla till 2.30 pm. Also Read: Was CJP not controlling the protest? What spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka told WION after Pradhan's resignation Rahul Gandhi claimed, "I am very happy today to see that he so called Home Minister of this country does not have the courage to come and sit here... why is the Home Minister not here today? The Home Minister is not here today because he is scared. The Home Minister authorised the shooting of our students. He put pellets into the blood of our students. He ordered the students of India to be shot." Also Read: Humour, people-power and a political newbie: How India's Gen Z protest used social media to break the traditional agitation playbook

<p>Rahul Gandhi accused Amit Shah of avoiding the Lok Sabha and alleged that the Home Minister ordered firing on student protesters. He also claimed the RSS controls education through university appointments and said protesting students were fighting against its influence.</p>

'Home Minister ordered shooting of students': Rahul Gandhi makes BIG allegation in Parliament, BJP demands apology

<p>Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (July 25) launched a sharp attack against Home Minister Amit Shah, holding him responsible for police action and the alleged excessive use of force, including pellet guns, against student protesters in the national capital during the CJP's Chalo Sansad March on July 20.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking at a press conference, Gandhi alleged that Shah authorised the use of lethal weapons during the protests and said the issue would be raised in Parliament.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We hold Amit Shah directly responsible for the violence that has taken place against our students. He authorised the shooting of our students. He authorised the use of lethal weapons, including pellet guns, against our students. For us, this is a fundamental issue," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/direct-democracy-straight-from-streets-sonam-wangchuk-hails-dharmendra-pradhan-s-resignation-1784974202262"><strong>'Direct democracy, straight from streets': Sonam Wangchuk hails Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi said the protests reflected deeper concerns over what he described as failures in the country's "education system, media system, and job creation system". He warned that these issues could have serious consequences for the country during a future economic crisis.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Congress MP also demanded an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the alleged use of force against the protesters and called for legal action against police personnel involved in the incident.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Action should be taken against both the implementers and organisers who attacked, assaulted, and beat the students, and that action should be visible. The students should see that these people have been punished for this reason. Secondly, the main operator of the system, Narendra Modi ji, should apologise to the students of India," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Describing Dharmendra Pradhan as "a symbol of corruption and destruction of the education system", Gandhi said his resignation represented a victory for the students. He also urged the Centre to take concrete steps to reform the education system.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Gandhi also criticised its alleged influence over India's education system.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The RSS's capture of the education system of India is a big issue. If it is Modi ji's fault, then the RSS is equally at fault," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pradhan's resignation came after weeks of nationwide protests over alleged examination irregularities and a 26-day hunger strike led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar. The agitation was spearheaded by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which had been demanding accountability over alleged examination paper leaks.</p>

The Congress leader called for action against police personnel involved in the violence and urged the Centre to take concrete steps to reform the education system.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday (July 25) launched a sharp attack against Home Minister Amit Shah, holding him responsible for police action and the alleged excessive use of force, including pellet guns, against student protesters in the national capital during the CJP's Chalo Sansad March on July 20. Speaking at a press conference, Gandhi alleged that Shah authorised the use of lethal weapons during the protests and said the issue would be raised in Parliament. "We hold Amit Shah directly responsible for the violence that has taken place against our students. He authorised the shooting of our students. He authorised the use of lethal weapons, including pellet guns, against our students. For us, this is a fundamental issue," he said. Also Read: 'Direct democracy, straight from streets': Sonam Wangchuk hails Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation Gandhi said the protests reflected deeper concerns over what he described as failures in the country's "education system, media system, and job creation system". He warned that these issues could have serious consequences for the country during a future economic crisis. The Congress MP also demanded an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the alleged use of force against the protesters and called for legal action against police personnel involved in the incident. "Action should be taken against both the implementers and organisers who attacked, assaulted, and beat the students, and that action should be visible. The students should see that these people have been punished for this reason. Secondly, the main operator of the system, Narendra Modi ji, should apologise to the students of India," he said. Describing Dharmendra Pradhan as "a symbol of corruption and destruction of the education system", Gandhi said his resignation represented a victory for the students. He also urged the Centre to take concrete steps to reform the education system. Targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Gandhi also criticised its alleged influence over India's education system. "The RSS's capture of the education system of India is a big issue. If it is Modi ji's fault, then the RSS is equally at fault," he said. Pradhan's resignation came after weeks of nationwide protests over alleged examination irregularities and a 26-day hunger strike led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar. The agitation was spearheaded by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which had been demanding accountability over alleged examination paper leaks.

<p>The Congress leader called for action against police personnel involved in the violence and urged the Centre to take concrete steps to reform the education system.</p>

'Shah responsible for violence': Rahul Gandhi vows to raise pellet gun use in Parliament

<p>Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (July 24) criticised the Centre over the alleged use of excessive force against protesters demonstrating over the NEET paper leak. He claimed that several protesters suffered serious injuries, including eye damage, after security personnel allegedly used pellet guns during the demonstrations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi made the remarks after meeting injured protesters. He highlighted the case of Sahil, a student who he said suffered a severe eye injury after being hit by a pellet during the protest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Congress leader brought the injured protester before the media and challenged the government's claim that pellet guns were not used against demonstrators.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The government is saying there is no use of pellet guns, but I can show you a victim here with me," he said</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi said the protester was peacefully demonstrating when he suffered the injury and expressed concern over whether his eyesight could be saved. He also claimed that thousands of young protesters faced lathi charges and pellet gun attacks during the demonstrations.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I want to explain that my brother standing here was injured by a pellet gun while he was peacefully protesting. The government has said that no pellet gun was used. His eye has suffered damage, not sure if his vision will be saved. Thousands of such youth were lathi-charged, and pellet guns were used against them. He gave an exam for police recruitment, but the paper was leaked."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Delhi Police, however, denied using pellet guns against the protesters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi also renewed his demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He accused the minister of being responsible for the alleged collapse of the education system and called for his removal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Dharmendra Pradhan is a criminal Education Minister. He has to be removed. He is a symbol of the collapse of our education system. He has to go. He is the reason why thousands of people are outside. He has to go," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-neet-protests-how-bluetooth-mesh-apps-kept-communication-alive-without-internet-1784890656998"><strong>Delhi NEET protests: How Bluetooth mesh apps kept communication alive without internet</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologise to the country's youth over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi's remarks came shortly after the Centre held talks with representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been leading protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Bullet pellets can cause severe injuries by tearing tissue, fracturing bones and damaging vital organs. They can also carry bacteria deep into wounds, increasing the risk of serious infections.</p>

Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of using excessive force against NEET protesters and highlighted an injured student whom he claimed suffered severe eye damage from a pellet gun.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (July 24) criticised the Centre over the alleged use of excessive force against protesters demonstrating over the NEET paper leak. He claimed that several protesters suffered serious injuries, including eye damage, after security personnel allegedly used pellet guns during the demonstrations. Gandhi made the remarks after meeting injured protesters. He highlighted the case of Sahil, a student who he said suffered a severe eye injury after being hit by a pellet during the protest. The Congress leader brought the injured protester before the media and challenged the government's claim that pellet guns were not used against demonstrators. “The government is saying there is no use of pellet guns, but I can show you a victim here with me," he said Gandhi said the protester was peacefully demonstrating when he suffered the injury and expressed concern over whether his eyesight could be saved. He also claimed that thousands of young protesters faced lathi charges and pellet gun attacks during the demonstrations. "I want to explain that my brother standing here was injured by a pellet gun while he was peacefully protesting. The government has said that no pellet gun was used. His eye has suffered damage, not sure if his vision will be saved. Thousands of such youth were lathi-charged, and pellet guns were used against them. He gave an exam for police recruitment, but the paper was leaked." The Delhi Police, however, denied using pellet guns against the protesters. Gandhi also renewed his demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He accused the minister of being responsible for the alleged collapse of the education system and called for his removal. "Dharmendra Pradhan is a criminal Education Minister. He has to be removed. He is a symbol of the collapse of our education system. He has to go. He is the reason why thousands of people are outside. He has to go," he said. Also Read: Delhi NEET protests: How Bluetooth mesh apps kept communication alive without internet He also demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologise to the country's youth over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Gandhi's remarks came shortly after the Centre held talks with representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been leading protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Bullet pellets can cause severe injuries by tearing tissue, fracturing bones and damaging vital organs. They can also carry bacteria deep into wounds, increasing the risk of serious infections.

<p>Rahul Gandhi accused the Centre of using excessive force against NEET protesters and highlighted an injured student whom he claimed suffered severe eye damage from a pellet gun.</p>

'Not sure if his vision will be saved': Rahul Gandhi attacks Centre over pellet gun use

<p>Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress and INDIA bloc MPs are headed to Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg, for what he said would be to remember the students who lost their lives after the NEET paper leak and those injured during protests.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Right now, MPs and leaders of the INDIA alliance are peacefully heading to Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg,” Rahul Gandhi said in a statement, adding, "We go to remember the students we lost - the children driven to take their own lives after the NEET paper leak."&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“And we go to stand with the students who lie injured today - beaten for peacefully demanding justice and accountability.” Gandhi's post on X reads.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking to reporters after reaching the site, Gandhi said the Opposition had first sought permission to march to India Gate before deciding to proceed to Gandhi Smriti.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Because our students are on the street, all the opposition MPs felt that we should also be on the street. We wanted all opposition MPs to go to India Gate, but they refused us. Then we said we want to go to Tees January Marg. Here, they have parked this bus, and the driver basically got off and abandoned it. We are not able to move forward. But the main message to the students is... We wanted to go to Tees January Marg symbolically because it's Gandhiji's assassination spot," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Delhi Police warned demonstrators at the site that the sit-in would be declared illegal if they did not disperse peacefully. However, Congress workers continued their protest despite the warning.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, along with INDIA bloc MPs, heads to Gandhi Smriti from his residence <a href="https://t.co/Mwwx8BrDxH">pic.twitter.com/Mwwx8BrDxH</a></p>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2080293669350039800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Opposition protests over the NEET paper leak and police action against demonstrators during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s 'Chalo Sansad' intensified significantly on Monday. On Tuesday, senior leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav staged a sit-in outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence on 7 Lok Kalyan Marg in Delhi. The leaders were later removed from the site and briefly detained by Delhi Police.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in the day, both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the fourth consecutive day amid opposition protests demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak issue. However, the government maintained that it was ready for an immediate debate without preconditions.</p>

Rahul Gandhi led opposition MPs to Gandhi Smriti in solidarity with students affected by the NEET paper leak, as the opposition continued its protests over the issue and police action against demonstrators.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress and INDIA bloc MPs are headed to Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg, for what he said would be to remember the students who lost their lives after the NEET paper leak and those injured during protests. “Right now, MPs and leaders of the INDIA alliance are peacefully heading to Gandhi Smriti on Tees January Marg,” Rahul Gandhi said in a statement, adding, "We go to remember the students we lost - the children driven to take their own lives after the NEET paper leak." “And we go to stand with the students who lie injured today - beaten for peacefully demanding justice and accountability.” Gandhi's post on X reads. Speaking to reporters after reaching the site, Gandhi said the Opposition had first sought permission to march to India Gate before deciding to proceed to Gandhi Smriti. "Because our students are on the street, all the opposition MPs felt that we should also be on the street. We wanted all opposition MPs to go to India Gate, but they refused us. Then we said we want to go to Tees January Marg. Here, they have parked this bus, and the driver basically got off and abandoned it. We are not able to move forward. But the main message to the students is... We wanted to go to Tees January Marg symbolically because it's Gandhiji's assassination spot," he said. Meanwhile, Delhi Police warned demonstrators at the site that the sit-in would be declared illegal if they did not disperse peacefully. However, Congress workers continued their protest despite the warning.

<p>Rahul Gandhi led opposition MPs to Gandhi Smriti in solidarity with students affected by the NEET paper leak, as the opposition continued its protests over the issue and police action against demonstrators.</p>

Rahul Gandhi leads opposition MPs to Gandhi Smriti to support students amid NEET paper leak protests

<p>Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (July 22) launched a sharp attack on the government over student protests and the NEET paper leak issue, saying the education system is "rigged" and youngsters are protesting for legitimate demands.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Addressing a press conference a day after the Congress held a protest outside the Prime Minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg against police action on protesters during the CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' march on Monday, Gandhi said the party fully supports the demands of students.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The thing that is very clear to everybody is that our education system, which was known to be one of the best education systems in the world, is today a rigged system. What we do know is that 152 paper leaks have taken place over the last decade. If you do the math, that's approximately one a month," the Congress MP said.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="hi" dir="ltr">आज हर छात्र कह रहा है, पुलिसवाले कह रहे हैं, पूरा देश कह रहा है - मोदी सरकार को जाना पड़ेगा।<br><br>विपक्ष के नेता के रूप में मेरी ज़िम्मेदारी हर भारतीय की आवाज़ बनना है - और उसके लिए हर कीमत छोटी है। <a href="https://t.co/uSLu9Py3F5">pic.twitter.com/uSLu9Py3F5</a></p>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2079943793286217798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The Rae Bareli MP said paper leaks had affected 7.5 crore students and their families, while there had been zero convictions of those responsible for the leaks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Seven-and-a-half crore students and their families are affected by this. These are middle-class and poor families. They put their hard-earned money into this, and then they are literally spat on. And the best part of this is zero convictions. In the last 10 years, 152 leaks have taken place and zero convictions. So somebody or a group of people are destroying our education system, India's most valuable asset, destroying the lives of our students. What does the government do? Zero convictions," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-appeals-to-wangchuk-to-end-25-day-hunger-strike-sp-delegation-to-meet-him-at-medanta-1784719985296"><strong>CJP appeals to Wangchuk to end 25-day hunger strike; SP delegation to meet him at Medanta</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also questioned the police action against protesters, asserting that students have the right to demonstrate and demand the fair education system the country owes them. However, he refrained from mentioning the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which is spearheading the movement at Jantar Mantar.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The question is why is this happening to our students? What exactly have our students done? They have security forces aiming weapons at them. What have they done wrong? They are protesting peacefully; they are making demands; they are asking for what this country owes them," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi appeared on stage wearing a black band on his right arm, in line with the Opposition's all-black appearance in Parliament on Wednesday as it sought a discussion on the NEET-UG paper leak issue in the House.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gandhi listed three key demands: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan should resign, strict action should be taken against those who allegedly beat and insulted students, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi should apologise for the treatment meted out to the protesting students.</p>

Rahul Gandhi accused the government of failing to tackle paper leaks, demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's apology over police action against protesting students.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday (July 22) launched a sharp attack on the government over student protests and the NEET paper leak issue, saying the education system is "rigged" and youngsters are protesting for legitimate demands. Addressing a press conference a day after the Congress held a protest outside the Prime Minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg against police action on protesters during the CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' march on Monday, Gandhi said the party fully supports the demands of students. "The thing that is very clear to everybody is that our education system, which was known to be one of the best education systems in the world, is today a rigged system. What we do know is that 152 paper leaks have taken place over the last decade. If you do the math, that's approximately one a month," the Congress MP said.

<p>Rahul Gandhi accused the government of failing to tackle paper leaks, demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's apology over police action against protesting students.</p>

'152 paper leaks, zero convictions': Rahul Gandhi seeks PM apology over police action against students

<p>Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday (July 21) accused Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha of "exploiting students as political tools to manufacture disruption during the Monsoon Session of Parliament." He slammed Rahul for disregarding established security protocols and demonstrating outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"LoP Shri @RahulGandhi and @INCIndia continue to shamelessly exploit students as political tools to manufacture disruption during the Monsoon Session of Parliament," wrote Pradhan on X.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Shri @RahulGandhi and @INCIndia chose to stage a dharna outside the Hon'ble Prime Minister's residence, causing inconvenience to the public and disregarding established security protocols," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He further said that the government was ready for a comprehensive discussion but the Congress did not prefer democratic debate as their "objective was never solutions for students."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Even after Government conveyed its readiness for a comprehensive discussion, the Congress chose political spectacle over democratic debate. Their objective was never solutions for students, it was disruption for political headlines," wrote Pradhan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Rahul Gandhi, Congress leaders arrested, later released</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Congress MPs including Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and KC Venugopal early Tuesday held protests outside PM Modi's residence at &nbsp;Lok Kalyan Marg, demanding his resignation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>They were forcibly removed by the police from the spot and taken into custody and later released.</p><p>Police took Rahul Gandhi to Chhatrasal Stadium along with other senior Congress leaders and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was taken to Mandir Marg police station, where senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi visited to show solidarity with the protesters.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After his release, the Wayanad MP defended the Congress's decision to hold a sit-in outside the Prime Minister's residence, saying, "we have reached a place where the government never expected" because the government does not allow discussion in Parliament.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“When we want to hold a sit-in protest to raise our voice against injustice, permission for that is not granted,” she added.</p>

Pradhan said that the government was ready for a comprehensive discussion but the Congress did not prefer democratic debate as their "objective was never solutions for students."

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday (July 21) accused Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha of "exploiting students as political tools to manufacture disruption during the Monsoon Session of Parliament." He slammed Rahul for disregarding established security protocols and demonstrating outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence. "LoP Shri @RahulGandhi and @INCIndia continue to shamelessly exploit students as political tools to manufacture disruption during the Monsoon Session of Parliament," wrote Pradhan on X. "Shri @RahulGandhi and @INCIndia chose to stage a dharna outside the Hon'ble Prime Minister's residence, causing inconvenience to the public and disregarding established security protocols," he added. He further said that the government was ready for a comprehensive discussion but the Congress did not prefer democratic debate as their "objective was never solutions for students." "Even after Government conveyed its readiness for a comprehensive discussion, the Congress chose political spectacle over democratic debate. Their objective was never solutions for students, it was disruption for political headlines," wrote Pradhan. Rahul Gandhi, Congress leaders arrested, later released Congress MPs including Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and KC Venugopal early Tuesday held protests outside PM Modi's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg, demanding his resignation. They were forcibly removed by the police from the spot and taken into custody and later released. Police took Rahul Gandhi to Chhatrasal Stadium along with other senior Congress leaders and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was taken to Mandir Marg police station, where senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi visited to show solidarity with the protesters. After his release, the Wayanad MP defended the Congress's decision to hold a sit-in outside the Prime Minister's residence, saying, "we have reached a place where the government never expected" because the government does not allow discussion in Parliament. “When we want to hold a sit-in protest to raise our voice against injustice, permission for that is not granted,” she added.

<p>Pradhan said that the government was ready for a comprehensive discussion but the Congress did not prefer democratic debate as their "objective was never solutions for students."</p>

'Rahul Gandhi, Congress shamelessly exploiting students as political tool': Dharmendra Pradhan on protests

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