The Congress initiated a 200-km ‘Yuva Swabhiman Cyclothon’ from Indore to Bhopal, intensifying its opposition to the BJP-led Centre on issues like alleged paper leaks, unemployment, and education sector concerns. Led by Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari, the two-day bicycle rally is part of the party’s 40-day “Students’ Voice” campaign, supported by Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha. Starting from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) in Indore, the rally will culminate in Bhopal after passing through Dewas, Sonkatch, and Ashta, with the participation of students, Youth Congress, NSUI workers, and senior Congress leaders.
The campaign aims to highlight the challenges faced by students and unemployed youth nationwide. Patwari emphasized that it is not merely a cycle rally but a movement to safeguard the future of the country’s youth, criticizing the Modi government for hindering the aspirations of young individuals. He raised concerns about paper leaks, recruitment delays, and increasing unemployment, affecting numerous students and job seekers. The demands include an annual calendar for competitive exams and government recruitment, timely filling of vacant positions, and ensuring free, quality education from kindergarten to postgraduate levels.
Patwari called for addressing the grievances of students and unemployed youth, emphasizing the necessity for employment opportunities, transparent recruitment processes, and an improved education system. The Congress also urged the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him morally responsible for paper leaks, including in the NEET exam. The party demanded an impartial probe into all paper leak incidents and strict actions against those accountable. The campaign is set to conclude with a national students’ mobilization in New Delhi on August 9, with the presence of various leaders including former minister Sajjan Singh Verma and AICC National Secretary Satyanarayan Patel.
