SHILLONG, JUL 24: The North East Students’ Organization (NESO) on Friday strongly condemned the alleged use of force by police against students during a peaceful protest in New Delhi on July 20, 2026, and called on the government of India to address student grievances through dialogue.
In a statement issued by Chairman Samuel B Jyrwa, NESO described the scenes of baton charges, use of tear gas and the reported deployment of plainclothes personnel with lathis against unarmed students as “an alarming assault on democratic values and the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.”
The students’ body said the protest was held over issues that impact millions of aspirants nationwide, including repeated question paper leaks in competitive examinations and the need for greater transparency, accountability and integrity in recruitment and examination systems.
“Instead of engaging with the concerns of the students through meaningful dialogue and constructive intervention, the authorities resorted to repression and intimidation,” the statement read.
“The grievances raised by the protesting students are legitimate and demand immediate attention.”
NESO said the aspirations and hard work of deserving students “must never be sacrificed because of systemic failures, corruption or administrative negligence.”
The organization expressed solidarity with all students who took part in the protest and conveyed concern for those reported injured during the police action.
It wished them a speedy recovery and reaffirmed support for their demand for justice and institutional reforms.
NESO has urged the Centre to immediately address the students’ demands through sincere dialogue, ensure accountability for the excessive use of force, and implement comprehensive reforms to restore credibility to the country’s examination and recruitment processes.
By Our Reporter
