Bengaluru: Students and citizens gathered in Bengaluru to express solidarity with the ongoing student protests at Jantar Mantar, joining demonstrations held in different parts of the country to voice concerns over accountability, democracy and the future of India’s youth.
The gathering saw participants from diverse backgrounds come together to support the student movement and call for the protection of democratic values and the right to peaceful dissent.
Citizens express solidarity with student movement
Protesters said they had assembled to stand with students protesting at Jantar Mantar, describing the movement as one centred on accountability, transparency and safeguarding democratic institutions.
Many participants said the demonstrations reflected broader concerns about the future of young people and the importance of ensuring that their voices are heard.
Calls for accountability and democratic values
During the gathering, several protesters spoke about the need for accountability from authorities and stressed the importance of protecting the constitutional right to peaceful protest.
Participants also raised concerns over police action during demonstrations and criticised what they described as attempts to create divisions among people based on differing opinions.
Many said that defending democratic principles and encouraging constructive public dialogue were essential for the country’s future.
Protesters say movement is about India’s future
Those attending the Bengaluru protest said the movement extended beyond the concerns of students alone, arguing that it represented a wider demand for justice, democratic participation and responsible governance.
They maintained that safeguarding the rights of young people to express their views peacefully was vital for strengthening India’s democratic institutions.
The Bengaluru demonstration formed part of a series of solidarity gatherings organised across the country in support of the student protests at Jantar Mantar.