Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jul 21: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday accused opposition parties and political groups of exploiting the ongoing protests over the NEET-UG paper leak for political gain, alleging that the movement had been infiltrated by elements seeking to create unrest rather than address students' concerns.
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Fadnavis referred to demonstrations led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who have been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The Chief Minister said peaceful protest is a constitutional right, but emphasised that it must be exercised responsibly and within the framework of the law.
He said the government has no objection to peaceful demonstrations conducted with proper permission, but warned that unauthorised gatherings that turn violent or disrupt public order would face strict action.
According to Fadnavis, movements without a clear leadership structure often become vulnerable to infiltration by individuals and organisations pursuing their own political objectives.
He alleged that several political parties and groups with no genuine connection to the NEET issue had joined the protests to advance their own agendas and create political instability.
The Chief Minister claimed that many of those participating for political reasons were not even familiar with the examination or the issues affecting students, but were attempting to capitalise on the unrest after being rejected by voters.
Responding to criticism over the police action against protesters at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, Fadnavis defended the security forces, saying the use of force became necessary after the situation turned violent.
He said police personnel came under attack, official vehicles were damaged and stones were allegedly hurled during the protest. According to him, timely intervention by law enforcement prevented the situation from escalating further.
Fadnavis maintained that the police acted with restraint and used only the force required to restore law and order.
At the same time, he clarified that he was not questioning the intentions of all protesters, acknowledging that many students had participated with genuine concerns. However, he alleged that the movement had been diverted by fringe elements and political opportunists.
Separately, the Chief Minister paid tribute to former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar ahead of his birth anniversary, describing him as a dedicated leader with a distinct political identity.
Speaking at a photo exhibition organised in Pawar's memory, Fadnavis also announced that the state government aims to release the first list of eligible beneficiaries under Maharashtra's farm loan waiver scheme on Wednesday as a tribute to the late leader.