The recent political tensions in India escalated when Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi arrived at the Mandir Marg Police Station on the evening of July 21. This visit was prompted by the detainment of key political figures, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and several other Opposition leaders. These leaders were arrested by Delhi Police during a protest in proximity to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence regarding the NEET-UG 2026 examination paper leak, alongside various demands from student groups.

The Congress leaders had initiated their march from Rajaji Marg, aiming to voice their concerns at the Prime Minister’s residence. Their primary demands included accountability for the alleged paper leak, an end to police violence against protesting students, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This incident highlighted the increasing unrest surrounding the education sector in India.

Congress Reaction to Police Actions

Following the detentions, reactions emerged from various Congress representatives who condemned the actions taken by the Delhi Police. Congress MP Rajeev Shukla alleged that excessive force had been employed against the protesters. He stated, “They have detained our leaders using police force. They were brutally put inside the buses. This is absolutely wrong.” This sentiment echoed throughout the Congress party as leaders expressed their outrage over the treatment of their colleagues.

Another Congress MP, Hibi Eden, emphasised the peaceful nature of the demonstrations. He remarked, “The students of this country have been demonstrating very peacefully for the past many days on a very important issue. The future of our country is dependent on this particular exam, and the integrity of this particular exam has been lost.” Eden reiterated the party’s demand for the resignation of the Union Education Minister, accusing the police of unnecessary aggression against peaceful protesters, including women parliamentarians.

Eden further described the police response as “ruthless and provocative,” expressing determination to continue their protests both inside and outside Parliament. His remarks emphasized the ongoing political struggle regarding educational policy and the government’s response to civil disturbances.

Political Context and Ongoing Tensions

This string of detentions unfolded amid intensified confrontations surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 examination issue and allegations of police brutality against students. Earlier that day, both Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi had been arrested while leading the protest at Lok Kalyan Marg, where Congress leaders accused the police of using excessive force against students demonstrating over the examination debacle.

In a related development, Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Jitendra Singh, reportedly accused Rahul Gandhi of altering his demands once the government agreed to initiate discussions concerning NEET in Parliament. However, the Congress party has maintained that the government must take responsibility for the alleged paper leak and must ensure a thorough evaluation of the education system, along with accountability for the police’s actions against students.

The events reflect a significant moment of unrest in Indian politics, centring around educational policies and the interactions between protesters and law enforcement agencies. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the demands put forth by student groups and the Opposition. The atmosphere remains charged as both sides navigate this contentious issue.

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