Kanimozhi, a prominent leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), has expressed her strong disapproval of the government’s response to recent protests in New Delhi. The protests were initiated by various groups demanding accountability regarding the alleged leak of the NEET-UG 2026 examination paper. Demonstrators were reportedly met with police action as they attempted to march towards Parliament in pursuit of their demands.

During a press briefing, Kanimozhi stated that the concerns raised by the protesters are legitimate. She emphasised the importance of protest as a democratic right, arguing that it serves as a crucial mechanism for citizens to voice their grievances. She condemned the government’s approach, alleging that it resorts to violence rather than engaging in dialogue with the demonstrators.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament commenced on a contentious note, with both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha experiencing multiple adjournments. The disruptions were largely attributed to heated discussions surrounding the NEET-UG paper leak and issues related to the alleged misappropriation of funds at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.

Demands Raised During Meetings with Government Officials

In the course of the protests, Saurav Das, chief spokesperson for the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), disclosed that he and other party members met with Union Health Minister JP Nadda to present various demands related to the NEET situation. The group is calling for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation of Rs 1 crore to the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly lost their lives, claiming that over 20 individuals have died.

Das articulated that the protest would persist until their demands are met, reiterating the urgency of releasing activist Sonam Wangchuk from hospital. He mentioned that the CJP has met with Nadda on two occasions to discuss these pressing issues. Throughout these meetings, the protesters remained committed to securing their demands, including overhauls in leadership and financial support for bereaved families.

During the initial encounter with Nadda, which reportedly lasted several hours, the CJP representatives conveyed their stance and submitted a written petition later that day. Despite Nadda’s assurances that he would communicate their demands to the relevant authorities, no definitive commitments were made regarding their requests.

Government’s Response to Ongoing Demonstrations

Union Health Minister JP Nadda acknowledged the ongoing discussions between government officials and the protest delegation. He confirmed that a proposal for dialogue had been initiated by the protesters, which led to a meeting that began at 11:50 AM. Nadda described the atmosphere of the talks as cordial and constructive, indicating a willingness to consider the suggestions put forth by the demonstrators.

Following the discussions, Nadda urged the protesters to conclude their sit-in and facilitate a return to normalcy in the area. However, he made it clear that the government had yet to make any binding promises regarding the protesters’ demands. The protest groups, undeterred, have pledged to maintain their peaceful demonstrations until satisfactory responses are provided.

The current political tensions and this series of protests underscore the ongoing struggles among various stakeholders involved in the education sector in India. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the government’s next steps and the efficacy of its engagement with the protesters.

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