Union Food Processing Industries Minister Chirag Paswan on Tuesday, 21 July said he respects student sentiments and firmly opposes any attempt to suppress their voices through force, calling dialogue the most constructive path to resolving grievances. His remarks came a day after violent clashes between Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) supporters and security personnel during the 'Sansad Chalo' march in New Delhi.

What Paswan Said

Speaking to reporters, the Lok Jansashakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief acknowledged that students had legitimate reasons to take to the streets. “I respect the sentiments of the students. It is natural that they would have anger and concerns over these issues, which is why they came out on the streets. But at the same time, I am absolutely not in favour of any attempt to suppress the voices of students through force,” he said.

Paswan also underscored the government’s openness to engagement. “Dialogue is a beautiful medium, and the government has always kept its doors open for it. When their representatives wanted to meet the government, J.P. Nadda ji met them, and the issues were discussed,” he added, referring to a meeting between Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and CJP representatives.

On Peaceful Protest and Law and Order

Paswan drew a careful distinction between legitimate democratic expression and situations that challenge law and order. He acknowledged that authorities are sometimes compelled to act when protests cross permissible limits, but made clear he does not personally endorse such measures.

“Many times, public anger leads people to come out on the streets, and in a democracy, peaceful protest is permitted. However, if certain limits are crossed or if law and order is affected, sometimes strict steps have to be taken. I do not strongly support such measures. I think that the feelings of the students, youth and the future of the country should be respected and my government is committed to do it,” he said.

Background: The Delhi Clashes

The violence on Monday, 20 July erupted as thousands of CJP supporters and students marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament. The march was called to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over recurring examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leaks. Security personnel and protesters clashed as the march approached restricted zones near Parliament.

Broader Context

The NEET-UG controversy has been a persistent flashpoint, drawing sustained protests from student groups across the country. This is not the first time demonstrators have marched on Parliament over examination integrity — the issue has triggered political debate across party lines for months. Paswan’s remarks are notable given the ruling coalition’s general posture on protests, and signal at least one senior minister’s preference for restraint and engagement over confrontation.

With the Centre having already facilitated a meeting between Nadda and student representatives, the government’s next move on examination reform will be closely watched by protesters and opposition parties alike.