Shiv Sena (UBT) Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Centre at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, accusing the government of being “scared of the youth” and deploying police force to suppress peaceful protests linked to climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike and student agitation over examination irregularities. Raut’s remarks came as demonstrations over the NEET paper leak controversy and broader student grievances continued to intensify across the country.

Raut’s Charges Against the Government

Addressing protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar, Raut alleged that the administration had initially dismissed both Sonam Wangchuk and youth leader Abhijit Dipke as inconsequential voices. “The government thought they could crush these activists like tiny insects. But these so-called ‘cockroaches’ have proven remarkably resilient. Today, people across the entire nation are stepping out to support them,” he said.

Raut criticised the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government for refusing to grant permission for peaceful marches and alleged that activists, including Wangchuk, had been forcibly hospitalised under police pressure — a charge the government has not publicly responded to. He argued that a genuinely democratic leadership would engage with protesters rather than ban their rallies.

Demand for Education Minister’s Resignation

Raut called for the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, stating the government should have directly addressed the grievances of students who have been demanding accountability over the NEET paper leak. He contended that Pradhan’s continuation in office was an affront to the younger generation.

Raut also alleged that if given the opportunity, the government would deploy the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against protesters. He urged demonstrators: “If you are blocked from marching to Parliament, redirect your march straight toward the ED headquarters.”

Allegations Against Constitutional Institutions

In some of his sharpest remarks, Raut described the ED and the judiciary as “enslaved agencies,” alleging that key constitutional bodies, including the Supreme Court, were functioning under the influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah rather than upholding constitutional values. He argued that a truly independent judiciary would have directed the government to engage with the protesting youth.

Thackeray Joins the Chorus

A day earlier, on Sunday, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray addressed a solidarity demonstration at Shivaji Park in Dadar, Mumbai, standing with Wangchuk and Dipke over student grievances and examination irregularities. Thackeray demanded the immediate removal of Education Minister Pradhan and urged citizens and political parties nationwide to unite behind the youth movement.

As protests continue to spread, all eyes are on whether the Centre will engage with demonstrators or whether the standoff will deepen ahead of the upcoming parliamentary session.