Le Congrès a créé un dangereux précédent en protestant devant la résidence du Premier ministre: sources gouvernementales

Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with other senior members of the Indian National Congress, led a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official residence in New Delhi on Tuesday, prompting government officials to accuse the opposition of setting a “dangerous precedent.” Government sources criticized the demonstration, describing it as a serious security risk and a violation of democratic norms. The protest followed days of student-led demonstrations over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 exam, which escalated into clashes with police. The protest took place on Rajaji Marg, near the Prime Minister’s residence, as Congress leaders demanded accountability over the alleged exam paper leak, the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and action against the police response to previous student protests. The demonstration drew participation from several Congress MPs, party workers, and senior leaders, including Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. As the group approached the PM’s home, security forces intervened, resulting in the arrest of key figures. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were among those detained by the Delhi Police during the sit-in. Security personnel carried Gandhi away after he resisted detention, with an aide reporting an injury below his eye. Priyanka Gandhi was also involved in dramatic moments, as she held onto the door of a police bus before it departed following the arrests. Her reaction to the police action included a statement criticizing their conduct, asserting that they were “cowards” and “scared.” Gandhi had previously posted on social media, stating that the protest aimed to “demand answers from PM Modi for the brutalities against young students yesterday,” referencing Monday’s clashes between law enforcement and students over the alleged examination irregularities. The protest marked one of the more visible confrontations between the ruling government and the opposition in recent months. Government sources emphasized that protests targeting the residences of political leaders were “not seen in mature democracies,” warning that such actions could threaten national security and erode public trust in democratic institutions. The comments echoed broader concerns about the safety of political figures, drawing comparisons to similar incidents in neighboring countries. In Bangladesh, protesters stormed the official residence of then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after her resignation and departure in August 2024. In Nepal, anti-government demonstrations saw the vandalism of the homes of several senior political leaders, including former prime ministers and cabinet ministers, during periods of political instability. The incident has sparked discussions about the boundaries of peaceful protest and the role of security forces in managing large gatherings. While some observers argue that the right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy, others highlight the need for maintaining order and protecting public spaces. The government’s stance reflects growing unease over the escalation of tensions between the ruling party and its critics, particularly in the context of ongoing debates over educational reforms and student rights. As the situation unfolds, further developments will likely shape the discourse around civil liberties and governance in India.