BJP Backs Jharkhand Student Protest, Accuses Opposition of ‘Double Standards’
Tarun Chugh backs job aspirants’ demands while accusing Congress of selective response to recruitment protests
NEW DELHI, Aug 10: The BJP on Monday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his alleged silence on the ongoing student agitation in Jharkhand, accusing the opposition party of adopting “double standards” towards recruitment-related protests.
The BJP’s remarks came as thousands of job aspirants in Jharkhand marched towards the state Assembly, demanding action over alleged irregularities in various recruitment examinations.
BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh said those who had actively participated in student protests in Delhi were now not speaking out about the agitation in Jharkhand, where the Congress is part of the ruling alliance.
Addressing reporters at the Parliament House complex, Chugh questioned why Congress leaders were not showing the same level of concern over the demands raised by students in Jharkhand.
He alleged that Rahul Gandhi had no time to hear the protesters because the government in the state was led by an alliance partner of the Congress.
“This is a double standard,” Chugh said, contrasting the Congress’ response to student demonstrations in Delhi with its approach to the Jharkhand agitation.
Students march towards state Assembly
The protest entered its 17th day on Monday, with thousands of demonstrators taking part in a march towards the new Vidhan Sabha building.
Carrying the national flag and placards, the job aspirants raised slogans highlighting their demands as they proceeded from outside the old Assembly complex in Dhurwa.
The protesters are seeking action over alleged discrepancies in recruitment examinations conducted in the state.
JLKM leader Devendra Nath Mahto, who has been observing a hunger strike for nine days, also joined the march in an ambulance. He had reportedly lost 10.5 kg during the protest and was seen carrying a portrait of former Jharkhand chief minister Shibu Soren.
BJP urges action on students’ demands
Chugh said students have the right to protest and urged authorities to address their concerns.
He appealed to all sides to ensure that the agitation remained peaceful and that no participant took the law into their own hands.
The BJP leader also criticised those he accused of attempting to use student movements for political purposes, saying such leaders should now come forward and support the protesters’ genuine demands.
The agitation has continued to draw attention as the students press for accountability over the recruitment process and seek action from the Jharkhand government.
