Greta Thunberg Applauds Indian Student Protests
Swedish activist Greta Thunberg has commended recent student protests in India, emphasizing that the movement has demonstrated the “true meaning of people power.”
During a rally in London’s Trafalgar Square, Thunberg expressed her support for Indian youth, stating that their efforts have inspired young people globally. “The Indian student protest has made us all proud! They have given us hope! They show what we can accomplish when we unite and resist. Their fight for justice and democracy is our fight too. We must stand together now and support India,” she proclaimed.
Thunberg joined many others at the weekend gathering organized by the Student Federation of India (SFI) to celebrate the movement’s achievements.
The protests, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, began in June and called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to the NEET examination paper leak and other irregularities. Along with environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, they voiced their concerns loudly.
In response to the agitation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a fast-track court to investigate the NEET paper leak. However, protests continued to grow, reflecting the students’ determination.
Pradhan Resigns After Protests
After 36 days of demonstrations, on July 25, Dharmendra Pradhan announced his resignation to the Prime Minister. In his resignation letter, he acknowledged his responsibility for the NEET UG paper leak but did not apologize, labeling the protests as “anti-national.”
Following his resignation, the CJP leadership met with government ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh. They conveyed that the government was willing to address the protestors’ demands.
The remaining requests included providing maximum compensation for families who lost loved ones to suicides related to the paper leak and ensuring that no legal action would be taken against the students involved in the protests. After receiving these assurances, the CJP called off the protest, encouraging participants to return home.
