Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday criticised India’s education system, saying it places excessive pressure on children, “stresses them and crushes them”, as he addressed a student-focused rally in Kota, Rajasthan, where he interacted with NEET, JEE and civil services aspirants amid concerns over paper leaks and unemployment.
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, made the remarks at the “Chhatron ki Goonj” Maha Rally, describing the event as a platform centred on students rather than politics. “This is not a political meeting. This is a meeting about you, about the young people who are struggling to get a future,” he said in his opening address.
The Congress leader said the objective was to highlight the challenges faced by students preparing for competitive examinations and to create a wider conversation on education reforms. He added that no student should feel the kind of pressure that leads to distress in the current system.
Also read: "Stop theatrics, new tricks" : Rahul to govt over Telegram ban
After his opening remarks, five students — three girls and two boys preparing for NEET, JEE and civil services — were invited on stage to share their experiences. Gandhi discussed their aspirations, preparation journeys and financial burdens associated with coaching.
The programme in Kota, a major coaching hub for engineering and medical entrance examinations, saw participation from a large number of aspirants. Nearly 1.2 lakh students are reportedly preparing for NEET and JEE across institutes in the city.
The Congress party has projected the initiative as the beginning of a nationwide student outreach campaign. According to a party statement, Gandhi will continue similar interactions in cities including Prayagraj, Patna and Delhi, focusing on issues such as exam stress, paper leaks and unemployment.
The BJP, however, has objected to the outreach, alleging it could distract students preparing for competitive examinations.
Follow us
