The leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, led a group of MPs from the INDIA bloc towards Gandhi Smriti in central Delhi on Thursday. This initiative was aimed at intensifying the Opposition’s protest regarding the alleged NEET paper leak and the police actions against student demonstrators at Jantar Mantar. The MPs gathered at Gandhi’s residence before boarding three buses intended for the protest site on Tees January Marg.

However, shortly after departing, the convoy encountered significant delays. Gandhi’s bus reportedly travelled a mere 10 metres before being obstructed by a white bus that was parked across the road, effectively halting progress. As a result, the assembled MPs found themselves stranded and unable to continue their journey.

Extensive security measures were in place around Gandhi’s residence, featuring personnel from the Rapid Action Force and paramilitary units. In addition, heavy barricading was established to prevent any further movement towards Gandhi Smriti.

Protest Objectives and Statements

The march was conceptualised as a tribute to students who, it is alleged, took their own lives following the NEET paper leak, as well as to show solidarity with those injured during protests allegedly led by the Cockroach Janta Party. Rahul Gandhi took to social media platform X to clarify the purpose of their march. He stated, “We go to remember the students we lost—the children driven to take their own lives after the NEET paper leak.

He further expressed support for the students who had sustained injuries while peacefully asserting their demands for justice and accountability. “India’s students are not alone. The entire Opposition stands with them and their demands,” Gandhi wrote.

According to reports, two Delhi Police buses were stationed behind the Opposition convoy to ensure that the protest remained contained. Announcements were made via loudspeakers informing the participants of prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. Officials indicated that the buses were unlikely to be allowed to advance beyond Gandhi’s residence, thereby limiting the reach of the protest.

Strategising the Next Steps

In light of the unfolding situation, senior leaders from the Congress party and other INDIA bloc constituents convened at Gandhi’s residence to formulate a strategy. The focus was largely on escalating discussions around the alleged police violence against students, both inside Parliament and on public streets. Key figures in attendance included Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, alongside senior leaders such as P Chidambaram, Jairam Ramesh, and KC Venugopal.

Members of various INDIA bloc constituents were also present, representing parties like RJD, TMC, CPI(M), and RSP. The meeting underscored the collective resolve of the Opposition to address the pressing issues surrounding the NEET controversy and student safety. The leaders aimed to unify their efforts and present a consolidated front in addressing these concerns in the upcoming sessions of Parliament.

The gathering at Gandhi’s residence highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among opposition leaders regarding police conduct and the overarching issue of student rights. The ongoing attempts to rally public and political support demonstrate the Opposition’s commitment to advocating for transparency and justice in educational matters.

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