Veteran social activist Anna Hazare recently held a two-hour 'maun andolan' (silent protest) in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, to support students protesting against widespread examination paper leaks. The demonstration took place on Thursday, beginning at 11 AM at a Mahatma Gandhi statue and concluding at 1 PM, after which Hazare returned to his village, Ralegan Siddhi.
Hazare Urges PM Modi for Dialogue and Accountability
Hazare's silent protest followed a letter he sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, appealing to the government to engage with students through dialogue. He emphasized that student agitation should not be perceived merely as a law-and-order problem but rather as an expression of societal anguish and expectations. He described reports of “violence and police action” against protesters as “extremely painful.”
In his communication, Hazare also voiced support for the demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. He argued that such a resignation would not destabilize the government but instead foster greater accountability and effectiveness in its functioning. Hazare called on the government to “listen to (the protesters) patiently, create an atmosphere of trust, and find solutions through positive dialogue.” Speaking to reporters, Hazare explained his direct appeal to PM Modi, stating that as the supreme leader, the Prime Minister should be fully aware of the public's issues.
Government Announces Fast-Track Courts for Paper Leak Cases
Earlier on the same day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government would establish fast-track courts to ensure swift trials in cases related to examination paper leaks. He stressed that nothing is more crucial than the welfare and future of the nation's youth, directing authorities to take all necessary steps to ensure “swift and stringent punishment” for those involved in jeopardizing students' futures.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also welcomed the Prime Minister's decision, reiterating that the welfare and bright future of young people remain the highest priority for the Modi government. Shah lauded the establishment of fast-track courts as a significant step against individuals who undermine students' prospects through paper leaks.