Protesting NSUI members detained

The Delhi Police detained several members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), a student wing of the Congress, when they tried to march from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament here on Thursday.

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The protest, “Sansad Gherao”, was organised to raise concerns over unemployment, cut in student scholarships and other issues impacting youth and students across the country.

As the march began, the police took NSUI national president Varun Choudhary and hundreds of party workers into their custody. The authorities said the protesters did not have permission for the march.

“We detained individuals who attempted to march towards Parliament to ensure law and order was maintained,” a police official said.

Despite detentions, NSUI leaders vowed to continue their fight for student rights and youth welfare.

Before being detained, Choudhary voiced strong criticism of the Central Government’s handling of key issues affecting students.

“This government has abandoned its responsibility towards students, prioritising corporate interests over education and employment,” he said.

“We will not be silent. The NSUI will continue to fight for the rights of students and the future of this country,” he said.

He pointed several issues such as discontinuation of the Maulana Azad National Fellowship, frequent paper leaks in public exams and lack of government vacancies. Choudhary also slammed the government for failing to implement the reservation policies and not addressing the needs of marginalised communities.

Choudhary also accused the government of prioritising the interests of industrialist Gautam Adani over the welfare of India’s youth. He also raised alarm over the Agnipath Scheme, which recruits soldiers on a contract basis, calling it “anti-youth.” Speaking about the deteriorating situation in Manipur, he called for urgent intervention to restore peace in the region.

“We will continue our struggle till the government addresses the pressing issues facing students and youth in this country,” he said.

The protesters also highlighted the urgent need to address the country’s rising unemployment rate, with over 30 lakh government positions currently vacant.

“The government is ignoring the plight of students and the unemployed youth. So, we are compelled to take to the streets,” said an NSUI member before being detained.

NSUI officials also pointed out cuts in fellowships and scholarships for students from SC, ST, OBC, and minority communities.

The police, however, maintained that the protesters did not have permission for the march.

A police official said: “We detained those who attempted to march towards Parliament to ensure law and order was maintained.”