Congress Protests for Student Rights, Demands Education Minister's Resignation Over Exam Leaks

Port Blair, India Jul 21, 2026 ALN: Staff Correspondent
Sri Vijaya Puram, July 21: Leaders of the and Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC) staged a flash protest this evening in solidarity with the nationwide agitation led by Leader of the Opposition Mr. Rahul Gandhi. This protest was in response to the alleged examination paper leaks and various issues affecting students across the country. The demonstration took place near the Lok Niwas Police Barricade, where Congress leaders voiced their demands for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The issue of examination paper leaks has been a recurring theme in Indian education over the past few years, raising concerns about the integrity and fairness of the examination system. Such leaks not only undermine the credibility of the examinations but also create an environment of distrust among students who have worked hard to prepare for these critical assessments. The Congress Party's protest highlights the growing frustration among students and educators regarding the government's perceived inaction on these matters.

During the protest, the Congress leaders accused the Central Government of failing to protect the integrity of the education system. They reiterated their demand for the establishment of a Central University in the and . The call for a Central University is particularly significant as it reflects the aspirations of local students who believe that a Central University would provide better educational opportunities and resources compared to existing deemed-to-be universities. The establishment of such an institution could potentially enhance the academic landscape of the region, offering a broader range of courses and attracting qualified faculty.

ANTCC President Mr. Rangalal Halder addressed party workers and supporters, emphasizing that the protest was organized to express solidarity with Mr. Rahul Gandhi, who has launched a nationwide campaign demanding justice for students. Mr. Halder's leadership during the protest underscores the Congress Party's commitment to addressing educational issues and advocating for student rights. His assertion that the government has ignored repeated appeals for accountability in light of the examination paper leak controversies reflects a broader sentiment among opposition parties that the current administration is failing to address critical issues affecting the youth.

He warned that if the genuine demands of students continued to be overlooked, Mr. Rahul Gandhi would persist in his protest, with Congress workers across the country standing firmly behind him. This statement indicates a willingness to escalate protests if necessary, suggesting that the Congress Party is prepared to mobilize its resources and support base to pressure the government into action. The ongoing agitation is not only focused on immediate concerns regarding examination integrity but also aims to highlight broader systemic issues within the educational framework.

Mr. Halder appealed to the local Administration and the Lieutenant Governor to address the concerns of students in the . He highlighted that students have consistently demanded the establishment of a Central University rather than a deemed-to-be university. The distinction between these two types of institutions is crucial, as Central Universities are typically funded and governed by the central government, which can lead to more standardized quality of education and greater access to resources.

Mr. Halder claimed that students had previously held a 51-day peaceful agitation regarding the university issue, alleging that their concerns had not been adequately addressed. This historical context of student activism suggests a deep-seated frustration with the government's responsiveness to student needs. The Congress Party's support for these movements indicates a strategic alignment with grassroots activism, which could bolster their political standing among younger voters.

Chairman of the ANTCC Campaign Committee Mr. T.S.G. Bhasker also addressed the gathering, alleging that the country’s education system had been compromised due to repeated examination paper leaks. He referred to reports of NEET and other examination controversies, claiming that deserving students were being denied fair opportunities despite years of hard work and preparation. This assertion highlights the emotional and psychological toll that such controversies can take on students and their families, who often invest significant time and resources into their education.

Mr. Bhasker expressed concern that the prolonged delay in addressing these issues had placed immense psychological pressure on students and their families. He urged the Government of India to ensure transparency in the conduct of examinations and restore public confidence in the education system by holding accountable those responsible for any lapses. The call for transparency resonates with a growing demand among citizens for greater accountability in governance, particularly in sectors that directly impact the lives of young people.

District Congress Committee President John Robert Babu stated that the protest was organized to demand the resignation of the Union Education Minister and to express concern over what he described as the deteriorating condition of the country’s education sector. He alleged that numerous examination paper leak incidents had occurred during the current Government’s tenure and questioned why accountability had not been established. This sentiment reflects a broader critique of the government's handling of educational policies and its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process.

Mr. Babu compared the current situation with previous governments, claiming that ministers had resigned in the past whenever serious controversies arose, but alleged that similar accountability was now lacking. This comparison serves to underscore a perceived decline in political accountability and raises questions about the standards to which public officials are held. He criticized the handling of student protests in various parts of the country, alleging that peaceful demonstrators were being detained and subjected to excessive police action. Such allegations of police brutality highlight concerns about civil liberties and the rights of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their grievances.

He referred to recent student movements in the , claiming that students had been discouraged from raising their concerns and noted that educational institutions were facing several unresolved issues, including those affecting Polytechnic students. The reference to Polytechnic students emphasizes that the challenges within the education system are not limited to traditional universities but extend to various forms of technical and vocational education as well.

Mr. Babu further expressed concern over the increasing privatization of government services in the , including transport and other sectors, alleging that such developments could adversely affect employment opportunities for local youth. The privatization of public services is a contentious issue in India, often leading to debates about the role of government in providing essential services and the impact of privatization on equitable access for all citizens. He urged the Administration to safeguard public institutions and government services, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes the welfare of students and the community.

Addressing the gathering, Mahila Congress President Mrs. Zubaida Begum condemned the Government’s failure to protect students’ interests. She alleged that peaceful student protesters in different parts of the country had been subjected to force instead of being heard, questioning why students demanding their rights faced such treatment. This observation points to a troubling trend of increasing repression of dissent, particularly among young activists advocating for change.

Mrs. Zubaida Begum assured that the Congress Party would continue to raise its voice against what it termed injustice towards students and confirmed that all frontal organizations of the party, including the Youth Congress, Mahila Congress, and District Congress Committees, would participate in future agitations. This commitment to sustained activism indicates a strategic approach to galvanizing support across various demographics, particularly among women and youth, who are crucial to the party's electoral prospects.

She appealed to the public to support the movement, stating that the party would persist in its campaign until students’ concerns were addressed. The call for public support reflects an understanding of the importance of community engagement in political activism, suggesting that the Congress Party is looking to build a broader coalition of support for its educational reform agenda.

The Congress leaders concluded the program by reaffirming their support for Mr. Rahul Gandhi’s nationwide protest and stated that the party would continue organizing demonstrations in the in accordance with directions from the central leadership, while pressing for educational reforms, accountability in examination-related matters, and the establishment of a Central University in the . This commitment to ongoing activism suggests that the Congress Party is positioning itself as a champion of student rights and educational integrity, potentially reshaping its image in the eyes of the electorate as a party that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the youth.