It may be noted that after the NEET re-test results were announced, there were no celebrations at the ‘CJP’ protest site by those who had qualified. Nor were there any aspirants lamenting that they had not made it. This was simply because those who had appeared for the exam were not present. And the protest is supposed to be about NEET irregularities. Every other kind of person, however, is there to try and obtain Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. These include the student wings of left-oriented political parties, certain celebrities who seem to be always looking for just such opportunities to prove themselves pro-people and ‘secular’ – opposing the ‘communal’ BJP is the best proof of that – and sundry politicians.
With Sonam Wangchuk ‘detained’ in hospital, the agitation is now being described as ‘faceless’ by news channels. A large number of on-the-spot interviews have revealed that those present at the protest barely understand even the basics of what it is about. Generally, most believe that, irrespective of their abilities, they are entitled to government jobs.
This is exactly what PM Modi focused on before the start of Parliament’s Monsoon Session. He spoke of what the ability of 28-year olds could achieve in the context of the private sector space rocket launch, comparing it to the deep sense of entitlement of ‘56-year-old youth’. Seeking benefits as rights actually undercuts the structure that provides rights like basic education and health care.
Seeking Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is a perfectly valid demand by those who feel betrayed by the system. However, forcing him to resign through coercive action and disturbing law and order does not take the cause further. Wangchuk will not be doing anybody except himself a favour by ending his fast – the police are basically there to prevent suicide. Basically, democracy has provided Parliament as a forum for such serious issues to be discussed. Public protests are supposed to be symbolic displays of support. Unfortunately, as has already been witnessed, despite what may seem a moral advantage, the opposition parties on the very opening day have resorted to disruptive behaviour leading to adjournments. Nothing suits the government more, as it will not have to participate in any serious debate.
So far, the agitation has been handled quite deftly by the police and the administration. However, things may go out of hand. As such, anybody who really cares about the youth, however misguided they may be, should work towards a peaceful resolution of the matter.
