AISA president Neha Bora accused the government of failing to address the root causes of systemic issues in India’s education system, calling for non-BJP parties to lead by example in handling student protests. Speaking in Kolkata on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, Bora highlighted the need for structural reforms rather than punitive measures, arguing that the proposed legislation on paper leaks addresses symptoms, not underlying problems. She emphasized that the current approach risks leaving students vulnerable, as investigations often conclude too late to salvage the academic year. Bora, who participated in a 23-day hunger strike alongside activist Sonam Wangchuk in Delhi over the NEET paper leaks, criticized the government’s response to the widespread protests. These demonstrations, initially sparked by allegations of exam paper leaks, evolved into broader calls for accountability and reform. The movement gained momentum after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union education minister, following sustained pressure from student groups. The protests, centered around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, lasted 36 days and were led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, introduced stricter penalties for those involved in leaking exams, including prison terms of 5 to 10 years and fines up to ₹50 lakh. However, Bora questioned the effectiveness of such measures, noting that even if an investigation concludes within 11 months, the academic year for affected students would have ended. She stressed that the focus should shift toward preventing leaks rather than punishing offenders after the fact. Bora also addressed the broader context of student activism, urging political parties outside the ruling BJP to adopt more transparent and responsive approaches to managing protests. She pointed to ongoing unrest in Jharkhand, where students protested alleged irregularities in recruitment exams and faced an "ink attack" in Ranchi. Bora suggested that non-BJP parties must avoid repeating the tactics they criticize in the BJP, warning that failure to do so could lead to similar consequences. She further linked the current wave of student-led movements to a generational shift, highlighting the growing influence of Gen Z and Gen Alpha in challenging institutional norms. Bora noted that the recent protests underscored the potential for holding those in power accountable, citing the resignation of Pradhan as evidence of this possibility. She argued that such movements could revitalize democratic institutions and offer hope amid years of perceived decline. In addition to advocating for policy changes, Bora criticized the centralization of education, which she claimed has exacerbated inequalities. She urged the rollback of provisions in the National Education Policy that promote centralized control, arguing that this approach undermines educational access and fairness. Bora emphasized the importance of involving educators in shaping educational frameworks, suggesting that their expertise could help create more equitable systems. She also defended student elections as vital democratic exercises, stating that they provide a platform for young people to engage with societal issues. Bora believed that these elections foster critical thinking and encourage candidates to demonstrate genuine representation. By participating in such processes, students gain practical experience in debating justice and organizing society. Bora’s remarks came amid reports of deteriorating conditions in government schools across the country. Students in various states have taken to the streets to demand basic facilities, such as functional toilets, adequate classrooms, and trained teachers. In some cases, protests have led to the suspension of school principals or the closure of schools due to insufficient resources. These actions reflect a broader discontent with the state’s neglect of public education, particularly for marginalized communities. The situation highlights a persistent gap between the aspirations of students and the realities of the education system. With limited investment and increasing reliance on private funding, the divide between privileged and disadvantaged students continues to widen. Reports indicate that nearly 73% of students in government and aided schools drop out before completing higher secondary education, underscoring the severity of the crisis. As student movements continue to gain traction, they signal a growing awareness of systemic failures and a determination to demand change. Whether these efforts translate into lasting reforms remains to be seen, but Bora’s call for unity and structural transformation underscores the evolving landscape of student activism in India.
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