The NEET paper leak protest, which began at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, continues to gather momentum across the country despite activist Sonam Wangchuk ending his 26-day hunger strike. While Wangchuk called off his fast after a late-night meeting with Union Minister JP Nadda at Medanta Hospital, protests over the alleged examination irregularities and police action against students have spread beyond the national capital.
In Punjab, youth leader Ravish Raj Sharma on Friday launched a 'Nyay Satyagraha' (Justice Satyagraha) outside the Deputy Commissioner's office in the PUDA complex, Jalandhar. Beginning a 12-hour hunger strike, the protest is for the alleged lathi-charge on students during the Delhi demonstrations.
'This Is Not a Political Protest'
Addressing supporters, Sharma said the agitation was not being organised under the banner of any political party, but through a social platform dedicated to issues affecting students and young people.
He appealed to people across the country to unite in support of the movement, saying its sole purpose was to highlight concerns related to students' future and ensure their voices were heard.
Raises Questions Over Police Action
Referring to the recent protests in Delhi, Sharma alleged that students peacefully demonstrating for their demands were subjected to a police lathi-charge.
He said that every citizen in a democracy has the right to protest peacefully, and responding to students' concerns with force instead of dialogue could weaken young people's faith in democratic institutions.
"History has shown that whenever young people have united to fight for their rights and the future of the country, it has led to meaningful change," Sharma said, urging students and citizens to stand together.
Key Demands Raised During the Protest
During the protest, Sharma demanded:
A fair, impartial and transparent investigation into the NEET paper leak case.
Strict legal action against those found responsible for the alleged examination irregularities.
The removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding the ministry accountable for the controversy.
Action against officials allegedly responsible for the reported lathi-charge on students during the Delhi protest.
In conversation with the youth leader
Talking to Ravish Raj, he told that this protest was held to support the students at the Jantar-Mantar demonstrations and to pay homage to the students who committed suicide and lost hopes after the paper leak. It was also held to encourage students at Jantar-Mantar for fighting for their cause and show their support.
NEET Protest Continues Despite End of Wangchuk's Fast
Although Sonam Wangchuk has ended his hunger strike following discussions with the Centre, the larger movement over the NEET paper leak issue remains active.
With protests now extending to states like Punjab, the issue continues to fuel debate over examination transparency, student rights, accountability, and the government's handling of youth concerns.