The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has directly accused Union Home Minister Amit Shah of being responsible for police violence, including the alleged use of pellet guns, against student protesters in New Delhi. At a press conference held on July 25, Gandhi stated that Shah had authorised these actions during the protests, which he characterised as a serious issue that would be raised in Parliament.

Gandhi asserted, “We hold Amit Shah directly responsible for the violence that has taken place against our students. He authorised the shooting of our students and the use of lethal weapons.” He remarked that such incidents should not occur, especially against India’s future, and reiterated that the matter would gain prominence in legislative discussions.

According to Gandhi, the protests emerged as a response to the failing education, media, and job creation systems. He warned that neglecting these critical issues could exacerbate the emerging economic crisis facing the country.

Students Demand Accountability from the Government

Gandhi mentioned that the students were also demanding an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He stressed that the underlying issues prompting these protests highlight a broader systemic failure in essential national services. He emphasised the urgency of addressing these problems, stating, “During times of serious economic crisis, these systems become even more important.”

The Congress MP reiterated that the protests should be viewed as a serious warning to the government. He argued that the Centre should refrain from treating the country as its “personal fiefdom.” Gandhi warned that if the government continues to neglect the voices of Indian youth, there may be more significant unrest in the future.

“This is a warning from the students of India and from the opposition that governance cannot be conducted in this manner,” he said. He further insisted that the country belongs to its people and that the current administration should recognize the ownership of the nation’s democratic principles.

Call for Reforms in the Education System

Gandhi called for concrete action against those involved in the violence against students, stating that both the implementers and organisers of the assaults should face legal repercussions. Emphasising the current state of education in India, he mentioned, “Our education system has been hollowed out from within,” and urged for substantial reforms.

The protests, according to Gandhi, signify dissatisfaction with the governance of the education system and lamented that it has progressively deteriorated over recent years. He described Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as “a symbol of corruption and destruction of the education system” and urged the government to take immediate steps to restore its integrity.

He remarked, “This was a reaction to the longstanding issues within our education system,” pointing out that recent events could mark a turning point in how education is managed. He also made a critical reference to the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), suggesting its involvement in the systemic issues plaguing the education sector.

Pradhan’s resignation from the Union Cabinet followed these developments. He indicated that his decision aimed to prevent further exploitation of the student protests by what he described as “anti-national forces.” The protests had escalated due to allegations of examination irregularities and included a significant hunger strike led by activist Wangchuk.

The student-led agitation culminated in a march to Parliament on July 20, where reports surfaced of police action, including the use of batons and tear gas to disperse demonstrators. The ongoing situation continues to evoke strong reactions across the political spectrum.

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