SHILLONG, JUL 23: Hundreds gathered at Laitumkhrah on Thursday to express solidarity with students protesting at Jantar Mantar against the NEET paper leaks.

The“people’s gathering” saw participants holding placards that read “All eyes on Jantar Mantar”, “You owe us a resignation”, and “We stand with you.”

Speakers condemned the alleged police action in Delhi, where students were reportedly lathi-charged and tear-gassed during a peaceful march.

“These are students, not terrorists. They have every right to question the government,” said one protester. 

“We are here to tell those in Delhi they are not alone.”

Another demonstrator, who attended with her mother, said the rally was also for students who allegedly died by suicide following the leak.

“The lathi charge was unjustified. Many were hospitalised. The youth deserve to have their voices heard without fear,” she said.

Protesters demanded accountability from the government over the NEET controversy and called for the right to peaceful protest to be protected.