SHILLONG, JUL 23: The opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) has come out in support of the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in NEET and has asked the Meghalaya government to state its position on the issue.
In a video statement issued on Thursday, VPP spokesperson Dr Airpiece W. Rani said the party stands in solidarity with students and citizens agitating in Delhi.
According to him, the protest goes beyond NEET and reflects a larger demand to protect institutions from corruption, nepotism and political interference.
The VPP leader also criticised the police action against demonstrators in the national capital. He alleged that protesters faced lathi charge and tear gas, and that some were hospitalised with injuries.
“Peaceful dissent and constitutional protest on genuine issues must be met with dialogue, not force,” Dr. Rani said, adding that the party prays for the speedy recovery of those hurt.
He linked the Delhi agitation to concerns being raised in Meghalaya, saying the VPP too has been demanding that institutions delivering public services be kept free of political pressure.
The party then trained its guns on the state government for not responding to the developments in Delhi.
Dr Rani said several youths from Meghalaya are part of the protest, and at a time when they are facing action, people expect the Chief Minister and the government to speak up.
“Instead, the state government has chosen to remain silent. Does this mean the government does not care about the youth and their future? Does it mean the government has no concern about the alleged irregularities? Or has the government of Meghalaya become a puppet in the hands of the Centre?” he asked.
Dr Rani also referred to a recent statement attributed to a partner in the MDA coalition, reportedly calling for protesters to be shot. He said if the remark is accurate, it reflects the approach of those in power.
“The people of Meghalaya deserve to know where the state government stands on this issue. The questions we are raising affect the youth of the state just as much as they affect youth elsewhere in the country,” the VPP spokesperson said.
By Our Reporter
