Saints’ Delegation Backs Protest Over NEET Concerns, Urges Government to Engage in Dialogue

Spiritual leaders extend support to hunger strike, call for transparency, accountability and democratic engagement

A delegation of Hindu saints led by Swami Raghavendra, Convener of Satya Dharam Samvad, on Saturday extended its support to the ongoing protest and indefinite hunger strike led by Abhijit Dipake, founder of CJP, over issues related to the NEET examination and broader concerns surrounding India’s education system.

The delegation visited the protest site, interacted with students and activists, and expressed solidarity with their demands, stating that public concerns over the integrity of examination systems deserve immediate attention from the government.

The delegation also expressed concern over the continued hunger strike of noted environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, who has entered the eighth day of his fast. The saints said the absence of a meaningful response from the government reflected a lack of sensitivity toward peaceful democratic protests.

They further noted that growing frustration among students following the NEET controversy had led many young people to gather at Jantar Mantar, where they have been demanding accountability and reforms. According to the delegation, these concerns should be addressed through constructive dialogue rather than ignored.

Saints call for moral accountability

Addressing the gathering, Swami Shivanand Ji, Founder and President of Matri Sadan in Haridwar, said the spiritual community was prepared to participate in the movement if required.

“If the need arises, saints from our community will also join this struggle through peaceful fasting and protest. Those entrusted with public responsibility must remain accountable to the people. Anyone who fails in that responsibility should have the courage to accept moral accountability,” he said.

Swami Raghavendra stressed that dissent is an essential part of a healthy democracy and warned against stigmatizing citizens who raise public concerns.

“In a democracy, citizens have the right to question those in power. It is unfortunate that people who raise concerns about public issues are often branded as anti-national, foreign agents, or troublemakers. Dissent is not a threat to democracy; it is one of its essential pillars. When students, youth, and ordinary citizens come to the streets seeking justice, the duty of the government is to engage in dialogue rather than dismiss their concerns,” he said.

Protest aims to safeguard students’ future

Abhijit Dipake, founder of CJP and the organiser of the protest, said the movement extends beyond student grievances and represents a larger fight to protect the credibility of India’s education system.

“This is not merely a students’ movement; it is a movement for the future of India. When questions arise about the integrity of examination systems, the dreams of millions of young people are put at risk. We are committed to a peaceful and democratic struggle for justice, and this movement will continue until the concerns of students are addressed,” he said.

Demand for education reforms

Other members of the delegation also underlined the need for reforms and public confidence in the country’s education system.

Brahmachari Sudhanand said restoring trust in educational institutions and examination processes should be treated as a national priority, adding that the aspirations of young people must not be overlooked.

Brahmachari Atmabodhanand described satyagraha as one of India’s most enduring moral traditions, saying it continues to serve as a powerful and peaceful means of social transformation.

Baba Ramkeval Das said supporting young people during times of uncertainty was a shared responsibility of society and the spiritual community.

Dr. Ajay Verma called for greater transparency, accountability and structural reforms in examination and educational systems to rebuild confidence among students and their families.

Appeal for democratic engagement

Concluding their visit, the delegation reaffirmed its solidarity with students, youth and social activists participating in the movement. It urged the government to respond through dialogue, transparency and democratic engagement, stating that peaceful protests and public participation remain integral to a vibrant democracy.

The delegation comprised Swami Shivanand Ji, Founder and President of Matri Sadan, Haridwar; Brahmachari Sudhanand; Brahmachari Atmabodhanand; Baba Ramkeval Das; Dr. Ajay Verma; and Swami Raghavendra, Convener of Satya Dharam Samvad.