JAMMU, Jul 22: National Conference senior leader and Chenab Valley spokesperson Ajeet Bhagat has criticised the Central Government’s response to the ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar over alleged examination paper leaks, calling for greater accountability and reforms in the education system.
In a statement, Bhagat said the concerns of students and job aspirants should be addressed through dialogue rather than by suppressing democratic protests. He remarked that when young people are compelled to take to the streets over their future, it is a matter that deserves serious attention.
Bhagat alleged that repeated leaks of competitive examination papers in recent years have shattered the aspirations of lakhs of candidates who spent years preparing for government recruitment examinations. He claimed that corruption and administrative lapses have undermined the confidence of students in the examination system.
Referring to reports cited by the protesting organisation, Bhagat said several students have faced severe mental stress due to repeated examination cancellations and paper leak incidents. He stressed the need for timely action to restore trust among students and job seekers.
The National Conference leader said that recent protests led by activist Sonam Wangchuk and student groups were aimed at seeking reforms in the education system and ensuring transparency in recruitment examinations. According to him, students participating in the demonstrations sought accountability and institutional reforms through peaceful means.
Bhagat further stated that unemployment, delays in recruitment and recurring examination controversies have created uncertainty among the country’s youth. He observed that when examinations are cancelled or papers are allegedly leaked, families that invest years of effort and resources in preparing their children for competitive exams also suffer.
He said the demands for employment opportunities, transparent recruitment processes and a fair examination system are legitimate and closely linked to the constitutional principle of equal opportunity. Bhagat urged the government to take effective measures to eliminate examination irregularities and strengthen the credibility of the country’s recruitment system.