Naveen Patnaik, the Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Assembly, has condemned the police’s handling of protestors during a demonstration in Delhi on July 20. The ‘Sansad Chalo’ protest, organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), faced significant police intervention, leading to allegations of excessive force. Following a meeting with Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Members of Parliament (MPs), Patnaik stated that the situation is alarming, particularly regarding the treatment of injured students.

Patnaik mentioned that numerous young protestors sustained injuries due to violent confrontations with the police. He noted that BJD MPs visited the injured individuals at RML Hospital to offer their support. He emphasised the gravity of the situation and indicated that upon returning to Bhubaneswar, he would further address these issues.

In response to the unfolding events, Patnaik expressed that he has been receiving questions regarding the necessity of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, suggesting that in light of the circumstances, it may be appropriate.

Injuries and Legal Actions Following Clashes

Reports indicate that over 60 protestors experienced injuries during the conflict, while Delhi Police stated that more than 118 police personnel were also injured. The police have initiated five First Information Reports (FIRs) related to violence, stone-pelting, and vandalism amidst the protests. In their investigation, authorities are reviewing more than 250 videos to identify those allegedly involved in the unrest.

Criticism of the police’s actions has intensified from various opposition leaders, who have labelled the response as disproportionate. They specifically accused law enforcement of resorting to lathi charges and deploying tear gas against peaceful protestors. This development has attracted widespread attention from political figures across party lines.

In the wake of this incident, notable politicians such as Sharad Pawar, leader of the Nationalist Congress Party, visited the protest site at Jantar Mantar to show solidarity with the demonstrators. The ongoing protests stem from concerns surrounding the NEET-UG examination and associated paper leaks, which have fuelled unrest among students across the country.

Political Reactions and Calls for Accountability

Sharad Pawar expressed his disapproval of the treatment received by the protestors, calling it inconsistent with democratic values. Following his interaction with students at the protest site, he called for an empathetic examination of their demands and urged the government to engage constructively with the protestors. Pawar highlighted the constitutional rights of citizens, stressing the need for the government and its administration to be accountable to the people.

Furthermore, he insisted that the authorities should refrain from suppressing peaceful protests and consider the demands of the students with the seriousness they warrant. The escalating tensions and reactions from various political factions underscore the gravity of the situation and its potential implications for governance and civil rights.

On a related note, Union Health Minister JP Nadda also visited RML Hospital to meet with the injured protestors. Nadda had previously engaged in discussions with a CJP delegation regarding their demands. This ongoing political dialogue suggests the need for comprehensive solutions to the issues facing the protestors and the larger educational community.

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