Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Meghalaya’s opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) and the North-Eastern Hill University Students’ Union (NEHUSU) threw their weight behind the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on July 23. They demand a response to the nationwide NEET paper leak crisis. The movement has expanded beyond test irregularities to become a broader fight against corruption, nepotism, and political interference.
VPP spokesperson AW Rani condemned the use of lathi-charges and tear gas against peaceful demonstrators in New Delhi. He accused the Meghalaya government of indifference. "To the VPP, this protest is not confined only to the alleged irregularities in the NEET examinations. It is about protecting public institutions from corruption, nepotism and undue political interference, and safeguarding the interests and future of millions of our youth across the country," Rani said. He called on Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma to clarify the state’s position regarding Meghalaya youths reportedly injured during the agitation.
NEHUSU joined the chorus by demanding that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resign. The union maintains that the minister must accept political responsibility for the systemic failures. NEHUSU president Melamlynti Markhap rejected calls for sympathy from the government. "Restoring public confidence in the country's education system begins with accountability, not assurances," Markhap stated.
Protesters in Shillong gathered at Khyndailad with placards to show solidarity with those in the capital. Meanwhile, NEHUSU has organized a campus gathering for Friday at 2 pm near the Central Library to push for a fair and transparent examination process.
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