Rajnath Singh Targets Opposition, Calls Delhi Protest Anger A Manufactured Campaign

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday criticised the Opposition over the ongoing protests in Delhi, accusing some leaders of using students and young people for political purposes. His remarks came a day after Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi participated in a sit-in protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence. Calling the protests a matter of “serious concern”, Singh said some political leaders were attempting to use student issues to advance their own interests. Without naming Rahul Gandhi directly, he said efforts were being made to create confusion among young people.

"The ongoing protests in Delhi are a matter of serious concern. It is extremely unfortunate that some people are attempting to use the students and youth of our country as political tools to serve their own political interests," Singh said. The Defence Minister said the Narendra Modi government remained committed to addressing concerns raised by students and ensuring their welfare. He added that no injustice would be allowed against young people and that the government was prepared to listen to their issues.

Singh also accused certain Opposition leaders of creating what he described as a “manufactured sense of anger” among the public. He said such efforts were aimed at misleading students and citizens, while maintaining that the government remained sensitive to youth-related concerns. "We are committed to ensuring that no injustice occurs against any individual, especially our students and youth," Singh said. He added that students should focus on progress, development and nation-building rather than being influenced by political narratives.

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The minister argued that Parliament was the appropriate forum to discuss public issues, especially as the Monsoon Session is currently underway. He said the government was willing to hold meaningful discussions on matters raised by the Opposition. "Parliament is currently in session, and the government has expressed its willingness to hold meaningful debates on every issue. However, the Opposition is making an inappropriate attempt to resolve issues on the streets rather than in Parliament," Singh said.

The comments came amid escalating protests by student groups and Opposition parties over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination process. Demonstrators have demanded accountability and action from authorities, while the government has maintained that it is committed to protecting the credibility of competitive examinations. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, have criticised the government’s handling of the protests and alleged police action against demonstrators.

Several political parties have demanded discussions on examination reforms and accountability. Singh urged Opposition parties to raise their concerns during parliamentary proceedings instead of disrupting the functioning of the House. He said democratic debates should take place within Parliament, where all parties have an opportunity to present their views. The political dispute over the protests is expected to continue during the Monsoon Session, with both the government and Opposition maintaining their positions on the handling of student concerns.

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