Bengaluru: More than 1,000 students, teachers, workers, artists, trade union members and activists gathered at Freedom Park on Sunday to express solidarity with NEET aspirants and students across the country, demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities, paper leaks and student deaths.

The protest was organised in support of the ongoing movement at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where student leaders and activists have been demanding reforms to India’s examination system.

Protesters seek accountability

The gathering began with a few hundred participants in the morning and grew steadily throughout the day. Demonstrators raised slogans demanding accountability from the Union government and called for reforms in the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Among the key demands were the restructuring of the NTA, the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and greater transparency in conducting national entrance examinations.

Several speakers described the issue as a systemic crisis affecting students’ futures and urged authorities to ensure fairness and credibility in the examination process.

Speeches, songs and solidarity

The protest featured speeches, poetry and songs highlighting concerns over the education system and constitutional values. Participants carried placards, copies of the Constitution and portraits of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, while many called for democratic accountability and institutional reforms.

Actor Kishore, addressing the gathering, urged citizens to actively participate in safeguarding democratic values and supporting students seeking justice.

The demonstration also expressed solidarity with activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was recently hospitalised after launching an indefinite hunger strike in Delhi.

Organisers said the Bengaluru protest formed part of a wider nationwide campaign seeking comprehensive reforms in India’s examination system and justice for students affected by alleged irregularities.

The protest concluded peacefully, with organisers stating that similar demonstrations would continue until their demands are addressed.