Opposition parties on Tuesday intensified their attack on the Centre, accusing it of failing to address the concerns of students despite the change in leadership at the Union Education Ministry. They alleged that while former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has exited the ministry, cases against student protesters continue to remain in place, raising questions over the government's commitment to reform.
Leaders from the Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), Shiv Sena (UBT) and other INDIA bloc parties demanded that all criminal cases registered against students protesting alleged examination paper leaks and recruitment irregularities be withdrawn immediately. They argued that students seeking transparency and accountability should not be treated as criminals.
Congress leaders said the government must answer for the alleged police action against protesters during recent demonstrations. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav warned of a statewide agitation in Bihar from July 30 if the cases are not withdrawn, while JMM MP Mahua Maji urged the Centre to fulfil its promises to the youth instead of pursuing legal action against them.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also announced that his party would provide free legal assistance to students facing cases related to the protests. He said young aspirants were exercising their democratic rights by demanding a fair examination system and should not be penalised for doing so.
The Opposition's criticism comes as Parliament prepares for an extended debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. While supporting stricter action against paper leaks, Opposition parties have maintained that the government must also ensure accountability for the handling of student protests and explain why legal cases continue despite repeated demands for their withdrawal.
The government has defended the proposed legislation, saying it will strengthen the legal framework against examination malpractice through tougher punishments, time-bound investigations, Special Task Forces and fast-track courts. However, the issue of police action and criminal cases against student protesters has emerged as a key political flashpoint during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
