Pics: Nithin Pereira/Anna Sequeira

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)

Udupi, Jul 24: A massive protest rally was held in Manipal on Friday, July 24, with thousands of students and members of the public participating to voice their opposition to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and demand the resignation of union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The protest, led by students, began at Coin Circle in Manipal and proceeded to the deputy commissioner's office in Udupi. Participants marched through the route carrying placards and banners while raising slogans against NEET and the union government.

Students alleged that the current examination system places immense pressure on aspirants and called for reforms to ensure fair and accessible opportunities in higher education. They also demanded accountability from the union education ministry.

The rally witnessed participation from people across different age groups, including school students, college students, parents, senior citizens, and social activists, making it one of the largest student-led demonstrations in the region in recent months.

Police personnel were deployed along the route to maintain law and order, and the protest concluded peacefully at the deputy commissioner's office.