Divija Fadnavis Voices Strong Views on Jantar Mantar NEET Protests

New Delhi: The student agitation at Jantar Mantar over the NEET paper leak issue entered its 34th day on Thursday, with protesters continuing to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Despite repeated rounds of talks, the government and students are yet to reach an agreement.

Amid these developments, Divija Fadnavis, daughter of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, expressed her candid and balanced opinion on the ongoing protests.

What Divija Fadnavis Said:

"Peaceful protest is a fundamental right of every citizen in a democracy. However, violence — whether from protesters towards the police or from the police towards protesters — should not be tolerated under any circumstances.

"She further advised students and youth:

"You can support the demand for educational reforms, but do not blindly endorse the political party or ideology leading the agitation. First, understand their true intentions and stay vigilant.

"Divija emphasized the role of responsible opposition in a democracy:

"Opposition parties should keep the larger interest of the nation in mind. Instead of merely opposing or defaming the ruling government, they should constructively help it take better decisions for the country’s overall development.

"Warning against the influence of social media trends, she added:

"Do not blindly support anything just because it is trending. Do not let any ideology brainwash you or rob you of your independent thinking. As long as the protests remain focused on students’ welfare and the core issues of NEET, paper leaks, and NTA, they are justified. But the moment they shift towards religious issues or deviate from the original demands, one must remain alert about the changing motives behind them."