Political interests derailing protests, causing anarchy, says CM Devendra Fadnavis on paper leak row

Mumbai, July 21 (SocialNews.XYZ) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on opposition parties and political organisations, accusing them of hijacking the ongoing demonstrations concerning the NEET exam paper leak to further their own selfish agendas and fuel political instability.

Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, CM Fadnavis commented on the protests staged by the Cockroach Janata Party and veteran social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who have been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He asserted that while peaceful protest is a fundamental constitutional right, it comes with inherent duties and responsibilities.

Clarifying the state’s stance on democratic rights, the Chief Minister stated that peaceful, authorised demonstrations would always receive permission. However, he drew a firm line against unauthorised gatherers resorting to violence.

"Everyone has the right to protest in a democracy, but while doing so, one must keep in mind both the rights and responsibilities bestowed by the Constitution," CM Fadnavis said.

"Staging unauthorised protests and resorting to violence intentionally to create political instability is completely unacceptable. Necessary action must be taken against such acts," he said.

CM Fadnavis highlighted that when protests lack clear central leadership, opportunists and bad actors often exploit the situation for personal or political gain.

He alleged that several political parties and organisations -- having no real concern for the NEET exam or the students affected -- have infiltrated the movement simply to incite unrest.

"When a movement is faceless and leaderless, certain elements circulate within it. They try to achieve their own selfish goals by firing from the shoulders of the protesters," he said, adding that "Many of these individuals don’t even know what the NEET exam is or when it took place; they are merely pushing their own political agenda."

Taking a swipe at opposition forces, CM Fadnavis added, "Political parties that have been rejected by voters in their respective states are now trying to gain political traction out of this unrest."

Addressing the police lathi-charge on protesters at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, CM Fadnavis defended the law enforcement agencies, stating that force was necessary to prevent a larger calamity after violence broke out.

"No government ever likes using lathi-charge against its own citizens. However, looking at the chaotic situation yesterday -- where police vehicles were damaged, and officers were pelted with stones -- if the police had not taken control, far worse incidents would have occurred. The police showed immense restraint and acted proportionately to restore order," CM Fadnavis explained.

He clarified that he was not smearing all protesters, acknowledging that some participated with genuine intentions. However, he maintained that fringe elements and political opportunists had derailed the cause.

Meanwhile, CM Fadnavis spoke fondly of the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar ahead of his birth anniversary, noting his distinct political persona, dedication, and stern yet warm leadership style.

Paying tribute at a photo exhibition organised in Pawar's honour, CM Fadnavis also made a major policy announcement regarding agricultural relief. "To mark the birth anniversary of the beloved late Ajit Pawar, the state government is attempting to release the first list of eligible farmers under the farm loan waiver scheme tomorrow," the Chief Minister announced.

Source: IANS