Venugopal asserted that the Congress Party would not retract Pradhan’s nomination despite the circumstances surrounding his arrest. He expressed determination to conduct protests nationwide, highlighting that the party views the situation in West Bengal as intensely undemocratic. The Congress leadership regards their fight against the BJP as vital for preserving democratic integrity in India.

During his comments, Venugopal remarked that the continuing suppression of dissent in India has culminated in a situation where voices of opposition are targeted with unfounded allegations. He referred to the current political landscape as a regression, claiming that “basic democracy is no longer evident in the country.”

Pradhan’s Arrest Sparks Political Controversy

Milan Pradhan’s arrest has drawn significant attention due to its timing, occurring shortly after the Trinamool Congress (TMC), led by Mamata Banerjee, expressed support for his candidacy. The incident has turned the Nandigram by-election, scheduled for October 6, into a focal point of political contention. Pradhan is said to be involved in an older murder case, raising questions about the motives behind his detention.

The Congress Party has rallied its leaders who have united to denounce what they perceive as a politically motivated arrest. Venugopal has stressed that even the most severe circumstances would not prevent Pradhan from contesting in the by-poll. He highlighted the importance of the upcoming election as a measure of resistance against perceived BJP overreach.

Connections to previous political events in Nandigram were not overlooked, with Venugopal labelling the region’s political history a “black chapter” in Indian democracy. His remarks were a reference to past incidents involving state violence against opponents, which still resonate in local and national discussions.

Upcoming Bypoll Details and Political Landscape

The Nandigram parliamentary seat became vacant after Suvendu Adhikari relinquished it while opting to retain his position in Bhabanipur following the Assembly elections in 2026. In this context, the by-poll has attracted candidates from various political affiliations. The BJP has nominated Hasirani Rath, while the CPI has put forward Shanti Gopal Giri alongside Congress’s Milan Pradhan.

The forthcoming by-election in Nandigram coincides with other elections, including those in Rejinagar and a Lok Sabha seat in Nagaon, Assam. All such elections are scheduled for October 6, with results expected to be announced on October 9. The Congress views this by-election as not only a local contest but also as part of a broader fight against the BJP for political dominance in India.

In his concluding remarks, Venugopal reaffirmed the intent of Congress to mobilise efforts at a national level, expressing optimism about the party’s prospects in the next general elections in 2029. He indicated that the ongoing situation would galvanise public support and opposition to what he termed authoritarian measures implemented by the ruling party.

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Venugopal stated, “Completely surrendered to the US. It is a clear-cut case of prioritising American pressures over Indian interests. The government is penalising the people of India.” These remarks underscore the Congress party’s concerns over the financial implications for the average citizen stemming from the new Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) imposed on substantial UPI transactions.

The protests reflect a growing dissatisfaction with the government’s economic policies, as KPCC representatives amplified their demands against the recently introduced charges. The sentiment during the demonstration highlighted the party’s agenda to safeguard consumer interests amidst rising costs.

Concerns Over Merchant Discount Rate Changes

Another senior Congress leader, Jairam Ramesh, also harshly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. He responded to the administration’s economic and diplomatic strategies regarding the United States, coining a new interpretation of NOTA to represent “Narendra’s Ongoing Trump Appeasement.” Ramesh argued that the removal of the zero-MDR policy on UPI transactions directly results from capitulation to American pressures.

Ramesh suggested that instead of countering perceived aggressive trade measures from Washington, the Indian government has acquiesced by abandoning the zero MDR framework, thereby benefiting American card networks. He questioned the decision to impose a 0.4 per cent MDR on UPI transactions, probing whether it aligns with the existing debit card MDR and serves the interest of US card companies.

In his critique, Ramesh dismissed the government’s assertion that these transaction fees are essential for maintaining the financial viability of the digital payments infrastructure. He highlighted that the operational costs associated with the UPI ecosystem represent a minor fraction of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) annual surplus transfers to the government.

Impact of the New MDR Framework

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) announced the new Merchant Discount Rate framework on September 12, 2023. Under this framework, UPI transactions exceeding Rs 2,000 will incur an MDR of 0.4 per cent, while consumers will still enjoy the option to transact without charges. This change is set to become effective from October 15, 2026, and will apply specifically to certain merchant transactions.

The regulations stipulate that a cap of Rs 300 per transaction will be imposed on the MDR applicable to Person-to-Merchant (P2M) UPI transactions that exceed the threshold amount. This introduction raises concerns among various stakeholders about its potential impact on the burgeoning digital payments ecosystem within India.

As the implementation date approaches, the Congress party continues to voice its opposition, advocating for reforms that would maintain a cost-effective and equitable digital payment landscape. The developments indicate a critical juncture in India’s financial technology sector, with implications for both consumers and merchants alike.

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The Congress MP questioned the absence of accountability from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, particularly regarding the police action against protestors on July 20 at Jantar Mantar. He expressed his outrage over the reported use of an “AK-47” during protests in Bihar, emphasising the urgent need for governmental transparency and action. “Why is the Home Minister running away from Parliament?” Venugopal pressed, demanding answers.

Venugopal condemned the government’s attitude, suggesting it reflects a disconnection from the voice of the people. He asserted that the current parliamentary deadlock was a result of the government’s refusal to engage with opposition demands. He reiterated that the Centre’s actions were a stark contrast to the democratic values upheld within the country.

Continuing Issues Ignored by the Government

In addition to the immediate concerns regarding police actions, Venugopal outlined several other significant matters which he claimed the government was neglecting. Issues such as ethanol blending policies and statehood for Jammu and Kashmir were cited as areas where discussions were evidently lacking. He reiterated the demand for a thorough inquiry into the Ram Mandir donations, questioning the absence of accountability in the matter.

Venugopal insisted that the government’s reluctance to discuss these topics highlighted a broader issue: an unwillingness to run the Parliament effectively. “The government is not ready to discuss any public issue we raised,” he stated, underscoring the importance of addressing citizen concerns within parliamentary discourse.

The ongoing monsoon session of Parliament has seen repeated adjournments, as opposition members demand the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss these pressing issues. Their absence, Venugopal claimed, represented a failure in governmental duty.

Opposition Protests Against Government Actions

Earlier on the same day, prominent opposition figures, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, participated in a march from the Gandhi statue at Prerna Sthal to Makar Dwar in Parliament. This protest aimed to draw attention to their grievances regarding the allegedly excessive use of force by police against the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) protestors on July 20. Allegations concerning the embezzlement of Ram Mandir donations were also spotlighted during this demonstration.

During her address to the media, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demanded increased accountability from the central government concerning the police actions against student protestors. Vadra contended that public officials must assume full responsibility for orders that involve the use of force against citizens, particularly the youth. She reiterated the notion that India functions as a democracy, not a monarchy.

In her statements, Vadra sought clarity on the decisions that led to the use of lathi charges and pellet guns against demonstrators, positioning herself as an advocate for human rights and accountability in governance. The protest signifies ongoing tensions between the opposition and the current administration regarding civic rights and governmental conduct.

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Venugopal also accused the Home Minister of evading accountability, saying, “Why is the Home Minister of India running away from Parliament? You are not even allowing the Leader of the Opposition to speak.” His comments highlighted a growing concern among opposition leaders regarding governmental transparency.

Opposition Protests at Makar Dwar

Prior to Venugopal’s statements, opposition MPs initiated a protest at Makar Dwar within the Parliament complex, focusing not only on the police confrontation with students but also on allegations of financial misconduct related to donations for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. At approximately 10.30 am, members from various INDIA bloc parties gathered, brandishing placards demanding answers regarding the alleged police action against the students at Jantar Mantar on July 20.

During the rally, protesters raised slogans seeking accountability from the government concerning the reported use of force against students and alleged irregularities in the handling of temple donations. This high-profile protest occurred just before the Rajya Sabha was set to address the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, scheduled for consideration.

Congress Rajya Sabha MP Syed Naseer Hussain remarked that the protests were aimed at drawing attention to the police’s actions during the students’ demonstration, accusing the government of failing to uphold assurances allegedly made to the protesters concerning their treatment and any potential legal repercussions.

Broader Context of Ongoing Protests

The protests were also in the wake of a demonstration by Samajwadi Party MPs, who, led by their leader Akhilesh Yadav, raised concerns regarding the alleged misappropriation of offerings at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya the day prior. The situation reflects a broader discontent among opposition parties regarding various government policies and actions.

These protests are part of a series of demonstrations that have occurred frequently, highlighting ongoing tensions between the government and various student and political groups. Commenting on the repeated unrest, Hussain noted, “These protests are happening every day. The way they treated the students, and afterwards, when discussions were held with the government by the students who were protesting, some promises were made to them.” Such promises allegedly included assurances that no arrests would be made and no FIRs would be filed against the demonstrators.

As the Rajya Sabha prepares to discuss the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill later today, it remains to be seen how the government will address these pressing concerns raised by opposition parties.

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Speaking at a press conference, he stated, “There is no personal attack at all. We are debating the issue of students in this country with the utmost priority.” Venugopal alleged that the government resorts to counter-allegations when unable to provide satisfactory responses to the questions raised regarding student welfare. He insisted that the Congress will persist in its efforts to spotlight student-related issues.

Aujla Supports Gandhi’s Remarks and Critiques Union Minister

Congress MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla expressed his support for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s comments aimed at Prahlad Joshi, urging the minister to confront his past statements concerning the Bilkis Bano case. Aujla claimed that Joshi has remained silent on the matter of Bilkis Bano’s convicts and their recent honours, labelling this silence as concerning.

Aujla elaborated that Joshi has not publicly addressed the felicitation of the convicts involved in the Bilkis Bano case, suggesting that this reflects poorly on his role as Union Education Minister. “Don’t run away from your past reactions,” he stated, emphasising the need for transparency and accountability from government officials regarding sensitive issues.

Furthermore, Aujla remarked that the absence of a response from Joshi only worsens the situation and that the scrutiny should continue in parliamentary discussions. His comments have added to the ongoing debate within Congress regarding women’s rights and government accountability.

Tharoor Adds Support to Party Colleagues

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor also lent his support to Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, stating that her comments concerning Union Education Minister Prahlad Joshi were justified. Tharoor described Joshi’s statements on the Bilkis Bano issue as troubling and detached from the serious implications of the matter.

In his remarks to the media, Tharoor expressed that speaking in support of individuals involved in such serious crimes is inappropriate. He reiterated the party’s commitment to addressing issues that affect women and children, highlighting that a responsible government must promote justice and safety for all citizens.

This sentiment aligns with the Congress Party’s broader agenda of advocating for vulnerable populations, particularly in educational contexts, as they continue to scrutinise the government’s policies and actions. Tharoor’s comments reflect a unified stance within the party regarding holding officials accountable for their past actions and statements.

Priyanka Gandhi Vows to Continue Addressing Women’s Issues

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has firmly rejected claims that her remarks in Parliament were unparliamentary. She reiterated her commitment to discussing issues grounded in factual evidence and highlighted what she perceives as a systemic bias against women. Her recent comments on Joshi, she claimed, were rooted in established facts and reflected ongoing societal issues.

Vadra also pointed to historical instances to underscore her arguments, mentioning the induction of an individual associated with the 2009 Mangalore pub assault into the Bharatiya Janata Party by Joshi. “What was unparliamentary about it? It was simply the truth,” she maintained, asserting that she will continue to speak openly about such matters.

Her determination to confront these issues reflects a broader movement within the Congress Party to advocate for women’s rights and welfare. The interactions in Parliament have become a platform for raising significant questions regarding government accountability and the treatment of women in society.

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He noted that students are grappling with serious challenges due to ongoing examination delays, financial pressures associated with education, and elevated unemployment rates. Venugopal’s call to action reflects the party’s intent to advocate for the rights and welfare of the student community across the nation.

Understanding these concerns, Rahul Gandhi initiated the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ campaign on June 17, 2026, in Kota, Rajasthan. The campaign continued with an event in Dehradun on July 17, aiming to reform India’s educational landscape and eliminate exploitative practices that have persisted under the current administration.

Recent Protests and Police Action

Venugopal’s letter also highlighted a recent protest that occurred in Delhi, where key Congress leaders, including President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, gathered to denounce police aggression against students on July 20, 2026. This gathering, described as peaceful, took place outside the Prime Minister’s residence, aiming to raise awareness about the government’s alleged heavy-handedness towards demonstrators.

During this protest, the letter states that senior leaders faced alleged mistreatment and physical assaults by Delhi Police, reinforcing concerns about the safety and rights of protesters. This incident has drawn significant attention to the party’s commitment to supporting the youth and voicing opposition to government actions seen as oppressive.

Venugopal reaffirmed that it is crucial for the Congress party to stand shoulder to shoulder with the youth, highlighting a “collective responsibility” to foster accountability in governance and uphold the integrity of the education system. The recent events have evidently intensified the party’s resolve to defend student rights and advocate for reforms.

Implementation of Engagement Programme

To facilitate direct interaction with students, the Congress party has scheduled a comprehensive outreach initiative for July 22, 2026. This programme is set to occur in colleges, universities, coaching centres, hostels, and various educational institutions across the country.

Venugopal urged all party members to collaborate closely with their designated City Coordinators and ensure timely arrival in targeted cities to connect meaningfully with the student community. This initiative reflects the party’s strategic approach to address student concerns while also fostering grassroots participation in political discourse.

As part of this initiative, the Congress aims to not only listen to the grievances of students but also advocate for their rights in broader political dialogues. Venugopal emphasised that engaging the youth is essential for both the party’s future and the nation’s democratic health.

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