Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has reacted to the ongoing student protests in Delhi, describing the situation as a matter of serious concern and accusing some political leaders of attempting to use students and young people as "political tools" for their own interests. His remarks come amid heightened political tensions following large-scale demonstrations over examination-related issues and the subsequent police action in the national capital.
Speaking to the media in New Delhi, Rajnath Singh said it was "extremely unfortunate" that certain individuals were allegedly trying to exploit students and youth for political purposes instead of allowing their genuine concerns to be addressed. He stressed that young people should not become instruments in political battles and appealed for responsible public discourse.
The Defence Minister said the Central Government is fully committed to fulfilling the aspirations of students and ensuring their welfare. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government remains sensitive to the concerns of young people and is prepared to listen to every issue raised by students. According to him, addressing those concerns is the government's responsibility.
Rajnath Singh also expressed confidence that the country's youth are capable of distinguishing between genuine issues and attempts to politically influence them. He alleged that some opposition leaders were trying to create what he described as a "manufactured sense of anger" instead of working towards constructive solutions.
Referring to the continuing political confrontation over the protests, the Defence Minister said that the government has repeatedly expressed its willingness to discuss every issue through democratic institutions, including Parliament. He argued that important national issues should be debated inside Parliament rather than being resolved through confrontation on the streets.
His comments come after several opposition parties, including the Congress, extended support to the ongoing student movement. Opposition leaders have accused the government of failing to adequately address concerns over examination irregularities and paper leak incidents, while also criticising the police response to recent demonstrations in Delhi.
The protests, led by student groups and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), have drawn national attention over demands for reforms in the examination system, greater accountability and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In recent days, demonstrations have intensified, with several opposition leaders joining protesters and raising the issue inside and outside Parliament.
Meanwhile, the political debate over the protests continues to deepen. While the government maintains that it is committed to protecting students' interests and addressing their concerns through institutional mechanisms, opposition parties argue that stronger action is needed to restore confidence in the country's examination system.
With Parliament in session and demonstrations continuing in Delhi, the issue has emerged as one of the biggest political flashpoints in the country. The government's response, the opposition's criticism and the demands of protesting students are expected to remain at the centre of national political discussions in the coming days.