Dimapur, July 24 (MExN): The North East Students' Organization (NESO) on Friday condemned the alleged use of force by police against students during a protest in New Delhi on July 20, calling it an assault on democratic values and the constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
In a statement, the apex students' body of the Northeast criticised the Centre's handling of the issue, alleging that authorities responded with repression instead of engaging with students through dialogue.
NESO referred to reports of baton charges, use of tear gas and deployment of plainclothes personnel armed with lathis against protesters, describing the action as excessive.
The organisation said the concerns raised by the students, including repeated leaks of competitive examination papers and the need for greater transparency, accountability, fairness and integrity in recruitment and examination systems, were legitimate and required immediate attention.
It said the aspirations and hard work of students should not be undermined by systemic failures, corruption or administrative negligence.
Expressing solidarity with the protesters, NESO conveyed concern for those injured during the police action and wished them a speedy recovery.
The organisation urged the Government of India to address the students' grievances through meaningful dialogue, ensure accountability for the alleged use of excessive force and undertake comprehensive reforms to restore the credibility, transparency and integrity of the country's examination and recruitment systems.
