New Delhi: Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Vice President Prof. Salim Engineer has criticised the reported use of force against students and youth protesting near Jantar Mantar over concerns related to the education system.
In a statement, Prof. Salim Engineer said reports of baton charges, tear gas use and detention of protesters were disturbing and inconsistent with the right to peaceful assembly and democratic expression. He urged the government to respond to student concerns through dialogue instead of force.
He said young people raising issues related to educational justice deserve attention and respect. According to him, the participation of thousands of students reflects their concern for transparency, fairness and accountability in the education system.
Prof. Salim Engineer also appealed to protesters to maintain peace, discipline and non violence during their movement. He said peaceful and principled protests carry greater public support and moral strength.
The JIH Vice President urged the Union Government to hold meaningful discussions with student representatives, conduct an impartial inquiry into allegations of police excesses and ensure accountability if any misuse of force is established.
He also called for wider educational reforms to rebuild public confidence in examinations and strengthen transparency within institutions.
Prof. Salim Engineer said educational justice is a national issue and should remain focused on improving the education system. He expressed solidarity with students, parents, teachers, educationists and civil society groups seeking reforms.
He urged Members of Parliament, opposition parties and citizens to support efforts aimed at creating an education system based on fairness, integrity and equal opportunity. He said restoring young people’s confidence in public institutions requires justice, accountability and meaningful reforms.
