The recently introduced Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 aims to address serious issues like cheating and paper leaks during examinations. Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi emphasised the need for strict enforcement measures. He called upon all Members of Parliament (MPs) to lend their support to this important piece of legislation.
During an interview with ANI, Manjhi asserted that Prime Minister Modi is committed to upholding democratic values and comprehends the public’s expectations. He mentioned that the Cabinet has reviewed and approved the Bill to combat the growing problems associated with unfair practices in educational assessments. He urged MPs to unite in favour of the legislation to bring about necessary changes.
Minister Comments on Recent Student Protests
Manjhi also addressed the ongoing protests by students in Siwan, claiming that demonstrators were resorting to violent actions, thereby prompting a response from law enforcement. He stated that the situation required immediate attention to maintain public order, particularly when protests escalate to the point of stone-pelting.
In his comments, he referred to the seriousness of the protests occurring near the Prime Minister’s residence. Manjhi noted that such confrontational actions cannot go unaddressed and have raised concerns about the use of force by authorities. He confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine whether pellet guns were deployed during these demonstrations.
Defending the actions taken by the state government, Manjhi praised Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary for his commitment to the development of both the state and its students. He remarked that any misguided actions taken by students should be met with appropriate responses to discourage such behaviour.
Criticism Arises from Opposition Parties
In light of the situation in Siwan, Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai openly criticised the government’s handling of the protests. He requested accountability from the minister responsible for the police response, pointing out that the excessive use of force is unacceptable.
Rai articulated concerns regarding the delayed recognition of student demands, which he believed led to unnecessary escalation of tensions. He asserted that had the government acknowledged their grievances sooner, it may have prevented the week-long protests. The criticism reflects a broader discontent with the government’s approach to public dissent.
Additionally, Rai accused the government of employing undemocratic tactics to sideline opposition voices. He argued that this kind of governance undermines democratic principles and should be addressed immediately. The exchange of remarks indicates heightened tensions between government representatives and opposition parties amid ongoing student unrest.
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