Thrissur: A group of activists from Kerala on Sunday expressed solidarity with the ongoing agitation led by Sonam Wangchuk and the student community, demanding the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan in the wake of the alleged irregularities in the NEET examinations.In a joint statement, they alleged that the widespread corruption surrounding the NEET examination has undermined the legitimate rights and future aspirations of lakhs of students across the country, raising serious questions about the credibility of the examination system.“The mental stress experienced by students due to exam cancellations and question paper leaks is driving many to suicide. According to reports, the crisis has pushed around 20 students to take their own lives this year,” the statement said.“We register our strong protest against the examination irregularities that are pushing the student community — whose future is vital to the nation’s progress — into despair and suicide,” they said.The statement, signed by K P Kannan, B Rajeevan, Sarah Joseph and K Satchidanandan, noted that in a democracy, the voice of the people is the supreme authority. However, they alleged that the country is witnessing the extreme arrogance of a govt that is unwilling even to engage in dialogue with those protesting over what they described as just and legitimate demands.“We all need to stand together for tomorrow’s India by supporting Wangchuk, who has launched a peaceful satyagraha for students’ rights,” they said.
