‘Where Does the Youth Go?’ Kharge Challenges Modi Over Student Protest Handling

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the government's handling of student protests linked to alleged examination irregularities, accusing authorities of using force against young protesters and failing to address their concerns.

Responding to Modi's remarks that those who attempt to harm the future of the country's youth would not be spared, Kharge asked the prime minister to "look into the eyes" of young men and women who, he alleged, had been injured while protesting.

Kharge alleged that the government had used lathis, pellet guns and shock batons against protesting students and said the youth were seeking concrete action rather than assurances. He demanded the immediate removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, an apology for the alleged action against protesters and justice for those who were targeted.

"All doors are shut. Where does the youth go to demand a future?" Kharge said, while also raising concerns over youth unemployment and the availability of permanent jobs. He further alleged that the RSS had captured the education system under the Modi government.

Congress general secretary K C Venugopal also criticised the prime minister's remarks, calling them an "eyewash". He reiterated the party's demands for Pradhan's resignation, an apology from Modi and punishment for those accused of attacking peaceful protesters.

The Congress' criticism came amid continuing protests over alleged NEET paper leaks and examination irregularities. Modi, in a post on X, said the government had decided to establish fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks.

"Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth," Modi said, warning that those who seek to harm the future of young people would not be spared.