Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan has voiced strong disapproval of the police action taken against protestors in New Delhi, framing it as a “brutal manhunt” orchestrated by the governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This statement came during a press conference held on July 22, where the CM addressed the ongoing discontent surrounding allegations of paper leaks. He specifically condemned the use of excessive force against prominent opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, who were protesting outside the Prime Minister’s residence.

According to Satheesan, the police response on the previous day included forcibly removing and detaining opposition figures, which he described as highly objectionable. He noted that this aggression mirrored similar actions taken against students voicing their demands for the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The Chief Minister’s remarks draw attention to what he perceives as a pattern of brutality against those exercising their right to protest.

Growing Discontent Among Students Addressed

During his press briefing, Satheesan highlighted the increasing anger among students regarding the paper leak incidents, asserting that the government has yet to take appropriate measures against the offenders. He stated that the approach adopted by the Centre is unacceptable and announced that, in response to the rising discontent, protests in Keralam will also take shape. The Chief Minister’s statements encapsulate the widespread frustration and demands for accountability within the student community regarding the issues of corruption and integrity in examinations.

The Chief Minister further detailed that the Cabinet plans to implement an anti-ragging law in Keralam. This initiative follows a concerning increase in ragging incidents within educational institutions. The law will be named in memory of Sidharth, a student who tragically passed away in Wayanad due to ragging-related violence. The government is working to create an application named after Sidharth, designed to facilitate student reports of such incidents to the appropriate authorities.

Satheesan attributed the move to a developing crisis concerning student safety and mental health, noting the need to establish protective measures across educational centres in the state. The proposed legislative changes aim to create an environment where students can pursue their education free from harassment and fear.

Clarifications on Meeting with Student Representatives

In addition to addressing issues related to protests and student safety, the Chief Minister clarified misunderstandings regarding his meetings with representatives of the Keralam Students’ Union (KSU). He asserted that reports suggesting he refused to meet with the KSU were inaccurate. The KSU, which is affiliated with the Congress party, had approached him to discuss the appointment of a Government Pleader.

During their meeting, Satheesan stated that his office addressed the concerns voiced by KSU’s representatives and provided necessary clarifications regarding their requests. He expressed that the Chief Minister’s Office maintains an open-door policy, allowing anyone, including students, to meet him and share their grievances.

Satheesan concluded by reiterating that no individual has ever been denied the opportunity to express their concerns directly to him, highlighting the structured grievance redressal mechanism in place within his office. The CM’s statement aims to dispel any misconceptions about accessibility and willingness to listen to student issues, promoting transparency in addressing public concerns.

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