Student Leaders Question Venue Restrictions for Congress Rally in Delhi

New Delhi, October 18 (Daily Kiran) : Student leaders in New Delhi have expressed concerns over the venue restrictions for the upcoming Congress rally scheduled for November 1 at Ramleela Maidan. NSUI president Raunak Khatri and Delhi University Student Union vice president Deepanshu Shaukeen criticized the limitations placed on protest locations, arguing that such measures undermine democratic voices.

Their remarks followed the Delhi Police granting permission for the Congress rally at Ramleela Maidan. Both leaders highlighted their worries about designated protest sites and restrictions on demonstrations.

Khatri pointed out the irony of citizens needing permission to gather in public spaces for protests in their own country. He emphasized that the kind of demonstration that should occur at Jantar Mantar now requires authorization even at Ramleela Maidan.

Targeting the central government and the Bharatiya Janata Party, Khatri remarked, “Such misfortune was not seen even during the British era, which we are witnessing under the current government.”

Shaukeen echoed these sentiments, questioning the limited opportunities for protests. He described the situation as alarming for democracy, stating that every citizen has the right to voice their concerns.

He added, “If the youth of this country are not even being given a chance to express themselves, it reflects the dire state of democracy here. This is a direct assault on democracy.” Shaukeen also criticized the ongoing arrests, asserting they are entirely unjustified, although he did not provide specific details on those cases.

Both leaders stressed the necessity for young people to have the opportunity to raise their demands publicly. They argued that democracy should allow ample space for protests and dissent, enabling youth to address their issues and concerns openly.