Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 13: The Indian National Congress has announced the first phase of a nationwide campaign focusing on examination paper leaks, recruitment irregularities, unemployment and what it termed the Modi government's failure to address the concerns of India's youth.
In a statement issued on Saturday, K C Venugopal said the campaign has been launched under the guidance of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and the leadership of Rahul Gandhi.
As part of the initiative, Rahul Gandhi will lead a series of large student conventions across the country, beginning in Kota on June 17. Subsequent programmes are scheduled in Prayagraj on July 10, Patna on July 11 and Delhi on July 14.
The events are expected to bring together students, job aspirants, educators, youth organisations and others affected by examination controversies and recruitment-related issues.
According to the Congress, the campaign seeks to draw attention to the challenges faced by millions of young Indians due to recurring paper leak incidents, rising examination costs and alleged shortcomings in ensuring a transparent and fair education and recruitment system.
The party said the outreach programme will be spearheaded by the National Students' Union of India, Indian Youth Congress and Congress units across the country.
Planned activities include campus visits, interactions with students at coaching centres, schools and universities, social media campaigns, live screenings and direct engagement with youth.
Congress leaders said the movement aims to unite students irrespective of political affiliations and provide a platform for those affected by examination failures and paper leak scandals to voice their concerns and seek accountability.
The campaign will also reiterate demands previously raised by Rahul Gandhi, including the decentralisation of the NEET examination process, abolition of examination fees, stringent action against those involved in paper leak rackets and accountability at the highest levels of government, including the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
The party further said it would press for a comprehensive discussion in Parliament on issues affecting the country's youth and advocate legislative measures aimed at safeguarding their rights, interests and future opportunities.