“Shameful, Hallmark Of Cowardly Government”: Rahul Gandhi On Crackdown On SSC Aspirants
The Indian National Congress has launched a scathing attack on the Modi government following a police crackdown on students and teachers protesting alleged irregularities in Staff Selection Commission (SSC) exams. The demonstration, held at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan, saw thousands of aspirants demanding justice for what they claim are widespread paper leaks and scams.
Rahul Gandhi did not mince words in his criticism, labelling the police action a “brutal lathi charge” and a “hallmark of a cowardly government.” He took to social media to amplify his message, arguing that the government, which he alleges came to power by “stealing votes,” is now “stealing exams” and “stealing jobs.” Mr. Gandhi’s post resonated with the frustrations of the protesting youth, who had gathered to demand their fundamental rights to employment and fair treatment. He accused the government of neglecting the youth, farmers, the poor, Dalits, and minorities, stating, “they don’t need your vote, so your demands will never be their priority.”
Echoing Rahul’s sentiments, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemned the use of police force as “inhuman and shameful.” She highlighted a grim pattern of “rigging” and “scams” in every recruitment process under the current administration, which she believes is “ruining the future of the youth.” Ms. Gandhi Vadra emphasised that instead of resorting to violence, the government should listen to the concerns of the students and address the deep-rooted corruption. Her statement reflects a growing political narrative that seeks to position the Congress party as a voice for the disillusioned youth who feel their career aspirations are being jeopardised by a flawed system.
The protest at Ramlila Maidan, organised under the banner of ‘Chhatra Maha Andolan,’ was driven by grievances over the SSC Selection Post Phase 13 examination. Students alleged technical glitches, abrupt exam cancellations, and biometric failures, which they say created an unfair and mismanaged testing environment. Although the protesters had obtained permission for the demonstration until 5 PM, reports indicate that police intervened around 7 PM, using force to disperse the crowd. Videos and images of the crackdown, including reports of injuries and detentions, quickly went viral on social media.
The SSC, a government body responsible for recruiting staff for various ministries, has a history of controversies related to paper leaks and exam mismanagement.
