CJP protest’s fifth day at Jantar Mantar swapped slogans for lectures. Educators addressed demonstrators, while the demand for a National Student Commission was reiterated.
The CJP protest at Jantar Mantar entered its fifth day on Wednesday, with educators Prof. Dr Vijender Chauhan, Delhi University; Vikramjeet Singh and Abhinay Sharma addressing demonstrators. Organisers reiterated their demand for the establishment of a National Student Commission, stating that the protest would continue until the government responds.
Dr Chauhan emphasised the need for diversity within the movement and the bureaucracy. Speaking to DU Beat, Dr Chauhan said,
Real change won’t come from a crowd that all look the same. Without that diversity, the fight simply can’t be won. “
Singh’s remarks focused on education funding and the credibility of national exams. He said the NEP 2020 and global benchmarks recommend public education spending of around 6% of GDP, against actual spending of 2.5%-4%. He linked the funding gap to poor school infrastructure, teacher shortages, faculty vacancies and a weak research ecosystem, which he said disproportionately affects rural and marginalised students.
Sharma’s remarks ranged more broadly, touching on other national issues, including media coverage, the Andaman Islands and renewed calls for the Union Education Minister’s resignation.
The protest, which began earlier this month, continues to demand the establishment of a National Student Commission of India. CJP says it won’t leave until the government agrees. At this time, the government has not publicly responded to the pressure group’s demand.
The CJP protest at Jantar Mantar continued into its fifth day with cultural performances alongside the day’s lectures, with performances by artists, musicians and poets at the site. During the rainfall on Wednesday evening, protesters were seen dancing together at Jantar Mantar.
While talking to DU Beat, one protestor called it a “controlled blast”, alleging it has allowed people to express their anger without tangible outcomes. Although the CJP promised 50% women’s participation, the organisation has yet to announce an official woman spokesperson nineteen days after its first protest.
Image Credits: Mayank for DU Beat
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Mayank Kushwaha
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