Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi has launched a scathing attack on the central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Friday, she accused the administration of treating students who demand accountability and reforms in the education system as enemies of the nation. Gandhi stated that while students have shown immense courage in raising their voices for a better future, the Modi government has responded with cowardice and unprovoked cruelty. She emphasized that instead of viewing students as the future of the country, the government perceives them as adversaries.
Allegations of Weakening the Education System
Sonia Gandhi further alleged that the government is actively weakening India's education system. She remarked that the students of the country have exposed the reality behind the Modi government's tall claims. According to her, standing with the students and protecting their future isn't just a political necessity but a moral and constitutional obligation. She articulated these views in an article titled "The Collapse of the Education System, the Pain of Young India," which was published in The Hindu newspaper. In her writing, she noted that the current student movement is a natural outcome of two interconnected factors: an education system that breeds despair among the youth and the Modi government's familiar arrogance and persistent refusal to be accountable or take constructive steps.
Criticism of Police Brutality and Past Incidents
The Congress leader also targeted the Union Home Ministry, alleging that the brutality displayed by police personnel against student protesters isn't a new phenomenon for this government. She pointed out that the police operate under the direct jurisdiction of the Union Home Minister. Gandhi reminded the public of the actions taken by armed police and paramilitary forces within university campuses during the 2020 protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the National Register of Citizens (CAA-NRC). She also mentioned that the unacceptable atrocities committed against India's women wrestlers can never be forgotten, linking these events to a pattern of state-sponsored aggression against protesters.
Prime Minister Modi's Response and Proposed Legislation
In response to the ongoing concerns, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a recorded message late Thursday night. The Prime Minister announced that a proposed law is being drafted which will include provisions for fast-track courts and strict punishments for offenders. He stated that the bill would be finalized after receiving cabinet approval and is expected to be introduced in Parliament at the beginning of the second week of the Monsoon session, while 5 months to resolve these issues. He highlighted that by conducting re-examinations and declaring results, the center has ensured that the academic year of approximately 22 lakh students isn't wasted.