Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi has strongly criticised the Centre’s handling of India’s education system, saying the country is facing an “education system’s collapse” that has left millions of students anxious about their future. Her views were published in an opinion article in The Hindu on Friday.
Why Did Sonia Gandhi Raise the Issue?
Her article comes amid nationwide student protests over alleged examination paper leaks, especially those linked to NEET. According to Gandhi, these protests are not just about one examination but reflect years of growing frustration over the condition of India’s education system.
Sonia Gandhi’s Main Arguments
1. Students Want Accountability
Gandhi said students across the country are demanding two things:
- Accountability from the government.
- Reforms to improve the education system.
She argued that these demands deserve dialogue rather than confrontation.
2. Criticism of the Government’s Response
She accused the government of responding harshly to peaceful protests instead of engaging with students. In her article, she wrote that young people were treated “as enemies of the nation” rather than as the country’s future.
3. Concerns Over the Education System
Gandhi claimed that India’s education system is facing several long-term challenges, including:
- Repeated examination paper leaks.
- Reduced public investment in education.
- Growing dependence on private institutions.
- Questions over the functioning and accountability of the National Testing Agency (NTA).
4. Youth Employment Concerns
The Congress leader also linked education with employment, arguing that many graduates face intense competition for limited job opportunities. She said this has increased pressure and uncertainty among young people.
Government’s Stand
The BJP-led Central Government has defended its actions, saying it is committed to strengthening the examination system and introducing stricter measures against paper leaks. The government has announced steps such as tougher laws and reforms while maintaining that it is addressing students’ concerns through institutional changes.
