Mumbai, July 22: Waris Pathan, the national spokesperson for the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), has condemned the police action against students during a protest linked to the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) in Delhi. He criticized the central government for its handling of various issues, including the NEET and TET paper leak controversies, and the opposition’s demonstration outside the Prime Minister’s residence. Pathan stated that using force against peaceful protesters is against democratic values and urged the government to engage in dialogue with the demonstrators to address their demands.
Pathan emphasized that the use of batons and tear gas against students is entirely unjustified. The students were protesting non-violently within the constitutional framework, advocating for their rights and justice. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi also condemned the incident and expressed support for the student movement, arguing that the government is resorting to repressive measures instead of engaging in constructive dialogue.
He noted that this is not the first instance of force being used against protesters. Similar actions occurred during the lawyers’ movement, the farmers’ protests, and the opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The police action against students from Jamia Millia Islamia remains fresh in public memory. The constitution guarantees the right to protest, and the government should engage with dissenting voices rather than suppress them. Every citizen has the right to peacefully express their dissent.
Addressing the issues surrounding the NEET and TET paper leaks, Pathan highlighted that ongoing irregularities in the examination system have raised significant concerns about the future of millions of students. The NEET exam has impacted the futures of countless candidates, leading to widespread anger among the youth. Students are demanding accountability from those responsible for jeopardizing their futures and calling for strict action against the culprits. Instead of addressing these concerns, the government appears to be trying to silence the students.
Pathan asserted that the protesting students represent the future of the nation and should not be treated like criminals. Disturbing images and videos of the alleged police action against women and female students have surfaced, raising serious concerns. His party has consistently supported the rights of students and will continue to do so. AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi has also met with activist MP Chandrashekhar Azad to express solidarity.
In response to questions about the protests led by Rahul Gandhi and opposition leaders outside the Prime Minister’s residence, Pathan remarked that each political party is expressing its views in its own way. He refrained from commenting further on the Congress-led initiative.
Regarding the controversy surrounding Jawhar University in Uttar Pradesh, Pathan stated that if there are legal disputes concerning any construction, there are various provisions within the law for resolution. Demolishing university buildings would adversely affect the futures of thousands of students. If there are issues of encroachment or other legal matters, the government could consider options like regularization or compounding. The interests of students should take precedence over damaging an educational institution.
He also called for a fair investigation into some videos and claims circulating on social media. The government should prioritize dialogue with students over the use of force and take their demands seriously, as dialogue is the best solution to any conflict in a democracy.
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