Mangaluru: Thousands of students, parents and concerned citizens took to the streets of Mangaluru on Friday evening, demanding justice over the alleged NEET scam and calling for sweeping reforms in the country’s examination system. The protest march, which began at the Hampankatta signal and concluded at Town Hall, witnessed participants raising slogans against alleged irregularities in the national medical entrance examination while urging the authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in the admission process.
The demonstration, which started as a student-led initiative, gradually turned into a larger public movement as people from different sections of society joined in solidarity. Carrying placards and candles, the protesters expressed concern over the impact that alleged examination irregularities have had on students’ futures and mental well-being.
Protesters raise slogans demanding accountability
The march witnessed participants holding placards bearing messages such as “NEET Scam Shattered Dreams, Destroyed Lives” and “Education, Not Corruption”. The demonstrators also raised slogans including “We Want Justice” and “Our Future Is Not a Gamble”, reflecting growing frustration among students who believe that a fair and transparent examination system is essential for safeguarding their careers.
As the procession moved through the busy Hampankatta area, the slogans echoed across the city, attracting the attention of commuters, shopkeepers and residents. Several bystanders paused to observe the march, while many expressed support for the students and applauded their peaceful demonstration.
The atmosphere remained emotional throughout the event, with participants stating that the issue extended beyond a single examination and represented a broader concern about the future of India’s youth. Many students said they had invested years of hard work and preparation and expected a merit-based selection process free from any alleged malpractice.
Students, parents and citizens unite
The protest drew participation from students preparing for competitive examinations, parents, education activists and members of the public. The organisers said the gathering symbolised a united demand for fairness in the country’s education system.
According to the organisers, the movement sought to amplify the voices of students and urge the authorities to restore confidence in national-level entrance examinations. Participants maintained that transparency and accountability are essential to ensure equal opportunities for every aspirant.
Many parents joined the march alongside their children, expressing concern over the stress faced by students due to competitive examinations. They said deserving candidates should never be deprived of opportunities because of alleged corruption or administrative lapses.
Key demands placed before authorities
During the protest, the demonstrators outlined several demands aimed at ensuring accountability and restoring public trust in the examination system.
Among their key demands were the resignation of the Union Education Minister, a transparent and impartial investigation into the alleged NEET scam, stringent legal action against those found responsible and adequate compensation for families who reportedly lost their children due to stress associated with the examination.
Participants also called for comprehensive reforms to strengthen the credibility of competitive examinations and prevent similar controversies in the future.
Addressing the gathering, one of the speakers said the movement was not merely about NEET but about protecting the aspirations of every student who believes that dedication and hard work should determine success.
The speaker said students across the country spend years preparing for competitive examinations with the hope that merit alone will shape their future, adding that any alleged irregularity undermines confidence in the education system.
Organisers emphasise peaceful movement
The protest was organised by Sushan, Ethan Tauro, Rehan Mohammad and Safwan Naas, who coordinated the participation of students, parents and citizens.
The organisers said the movement was intended to remain peaceful while sending a strong message in favour of justice, transparency and accountability. They urged students to continue raising their voices through democratic means until their concerns are addressed.
Throughout the march, volunteers coordinated the procession while ensuring participants followed the designated route from Hampankatta to Town Hall.
Police ensure smooth conduct
Police personnel were deployed along the protest route to maintain law and order and facilitate the movement of demonstrators. Traffic was regulated at key junctions to minimise inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians.
The protest concluded peacefully at Town Hall, where participants took a collective pledge to continue seeking justice through lawful and democratic means. Holding candles and raising their fists in solidarity, the gathering ended with a unified message that students’ futures should never be compromised.
The demonstration highlighted growing public concern over the integrity of competitive examinations and reflected the demand for an education system that is transparent, fair and free from alleged corruption. With strong participation from students, parents and citizens, the protest underscored the importance of protecting merit and restoring trust in institutions responsible for conducting national entrance examinations.