Gurgaon: Support for the ongoing students’ protest over NEET paper leak grew on Friday. Congress, Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and Ahir Regiment Sangarsh Morcha have extended support to the agitating students while distancing themselves from CJP, which has been spearheading the campaign.Separate delegations from the three organisations submitted memorandums to the deputy commissioner, addressed to the President of India and the prime minister, seeking intervention in the matter and urging action on the students’ demands.Anticipating protests, the district administration deployed additional police personnel at the Mini Secretariat in the city. However, no demonstration or sit-in was held, with delegations dispersing after submitting their memorandums.In the city, Congress functionaries submitted a memorandum, while in Rewari, AICC national secretary and former Rewari MLA Chiranjeev Rao led a demonstration against the paper leak and police action against students protesting at Jantar Mantar.Rao accused the Centre of failing to protect the aspirations of students. “Competitive examination papers are being leaked repeatedly across the country. Millions of students prepare for years while their parents spend their hard-earned savings on their education,” he said.Congress’ Gurgaon district (rural) president Vardhan Yadav alleged that students protesting peacefully were met with police action. “When students raise their voices for their rights, they face lathi charges, tear gas and suppression of their democratic rights. Even women students participating in peaceful protests were not spared,” he said.INLD condemned the police action against students and demanded the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, saying accountability was necessary to restore confidence in the examination system.Arun Yadav of Sanyukta Ahir Regiment Morcha said the organisation submitted a memorandum in support of students protesting over NEET while making it clear that its support was “for the students’ cause and not for any particular organisation” leading the agitation.
