Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)
Mangaluru, Jul 24: The streets of Mangaluru echoed with anger, emotion, and determination on Friday evening as thousands of students, parents, and citizens marched from the Hampankatta signal to Town Hall, demanding justice over the alleged NEET scam and calling for urgent reforms in the country's examination system.
Holding placards that read "NEET Scam Shattered Dreams, Destroyed Lives" and chanting slogans such as "We Want Justice", "Our Future Is Not a Gamble", and "Education, Not Corruption", the protesters turned the city into a sea of voices demanding accountability.
What began as a student-led protest soon transformed into a powerful public movement, with people from different walks of life joining in solidarity. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as participants said they were not merely protesting an examination but fighting for the future of an entire generation.
The protesters demanded the resignation of the union education minister, a transparent investigation into the alleged NEET scam, strict action against those responsible, and compensation for families who reportedly lost their children due to stress linked to the examination.
The protest was organised by Sushan, Ethan Tauro, Rehan Mohammad, and Safwan Naas, bringing together students, parents, and citizens in a united call for justice, transparency, and accountability in the examination system. The organisers highlighted that the movement aimed to amplify the voices of students and demand a fair, corruption-free future for every aspirant.
"This is not just about NEET. This is about every student who studies day and night believing that hard work will be rewarded. We refuse to let our future be decided by corruption," one of the speakers told the gathering.
As the march moved through the heart of the city, slogans calling for justice reverberated across Hampankatta, drawing the attention of commuters and residents. Many bystanders stopped to watch, while several extended their support to the demonstrators.
Police personnel were deployed throughout the route to ensure law and order, and the protest concluded peacefully at Town Hall with participants taking a collective pledge to continue their fight until justice is delivered.
With candles, placards, and raised fists, the protesters ended the evening with one message that resonated across the venue: "Our future is not for sale. Our dreams deserve justice."