Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 21: Union Food Processing Industries minister Chirag Paswan on Tuesday said students' concerns should be addressed through dialogue rather than force, stressing that peaceful engagement is the most effective way to resolve issues raised by the country's youth.
His remarks came a day after clashes broke out between supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and security personnel during the 'Sansad Chalo' march in the national capital.
Speaking to reporters, the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) president said it was natural for students to feel angry over the issues that led to the protest and that their voices deserved to be heard with respect.
Paswan said he was not in favour of suppressing student protests through force and believed that open communication remained the best approach to resolving disagreements.
Referring to the recent meeting between Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and CJP representatives, Paswan said the Central government has consistently maintained an open-door policy for discussions and has preferred dialogue over confrontation.
He noted that the concerns raised by the protesters had already been discussed during the meeting, reflecting the government's willingness to engage with those seeking solutions.
The Union Minister also observed that public anger often prompts people to take to the streets and said peaceful demonstrations are a legitimate part of a democratic society.
At the same time, he acknowledged that authorities may be compelled to intervene if protests cross legal limits or create law-and-order challenges. However, he reiterated that he personally favours dialogue over coercive action.
Paswan added that the sentiments of students and the aspirations of the country's youth must be respected, saying the government remains committed to safeguarding their future.
The violence erupted on Monday when thousands of students and CJP supporters marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leak controversy.