What happened
Rahul Gandhi intensified the Congress party's attack on the Union government by demanding an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a resignation from Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Gandhi made the remarks after his protest outside the Prime Minister's residence and after alleging that police had acted harshly against students who took part in the "Sansad Chalo" protest.
Gandhi argued that students are the country's future and should not be branded as terrorists. He also said the Opposition supports the protesters' demands, including resignation, and described those demands as legitimate and non-negotiable.
What the controversy is about
The controversy combines two recurring governance concerns: alleged paper leaks in competitive examinations and the handling of student protests. Gandhi alleged that the education system has been systematically undermined under the Narendra Modi government and said expensive coaching imposes a heavy burden on families.
At the press conference, Gandhi played videos showing alleged police action against students during the "Sansad Chalo" protest and questioned why students seeking a fair education system were subjected to force.
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