Indian prime minister says protesters should be guided rather than punished as government faces pressure after exam paper leak controversy.
MUMBAI, Aug 1 (Reuters): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said legal action against student protesters would not resolve the issues behind recent demonstrations, saying authorities should focus on guiding young people instead of punishing them.
In a video message shared on social media, Modi said he wanted to forgive students who used abusive language against him during protests last month, adding that forcing them to repeatedly appear in courts would not address the underlying concerns.
“These are misled children. Showing them the right path is our duty. Punishing them, making them run around courts, or tormenting them in society will not change the situation,” Modi said.
“I want to forgive them. I hope society also accepts this stance of mine,” he added.
Why did students protest across India?
The protests intensified in July after allegations of national examination paper leaks triggered anger among students over concerns about fairness and employment opportunities.
The controversy forced authorities to order a retest for around 2 million students, increasing pressure on the government over the management of competitive examinations.
Hundreds of protesters faced police cases after clashes with security forces were reported in several parts of the country. In New Delhi, demonstrators attempting to march towards parliament were met with tear gas and baton charges, according to officials.
What steps has the government taken after the protests?
The student-led movement, associated with the self-described Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), ended after the education minister resigned and the government accepted key demands, including reforms in the examination system and withdrawal of police cases against protesters.
The government has also introduced legislation in parliament aimed at strengthening rules governing public examinations. The proposed changes include tougher penalties, longer prison terms and higher fines for individuals involved in examination paper leaks.
The protests marked one of the biggest political challenges facing Modi’s third term, highlighting growing concerns among young Indians over education, employment opportunities and examination transparency.