Government ready for talks with Delhi protesters ‘any time, any place’
Protesters continue their demonstrations. Reuters
After four consecutive days of protests, the Indian central government has extended a conciliatory message to the protesting students. Addressing the protesters and the Kakroach Janata Party (CJP), Union Minister Jitendra Singh said the government is ready to hold talks on the students’ demands “any time, any place.” He also claimed that four proposals for dialogue have been sent to the protesters since Tuesday.
On the fourth day of the ongoing student protests in Delhi, the central government formally invited the protesters to hold discussions. Jitendra Singh said the government wants to resolve the situation through open dialogue on the students’ concerns and demands.
He said four proposals for talks have been sent to the representatives of the protesters since Tuesday. The government has conveyed that it is prepared to meet at a time and place convenient for the protesters.
Jitendra Singh said, “The government’s message to our young friends is clear. We are ready to hold discussions at your convenience, on any issue, at any place.”
He also said that neither side should take a rigid or ego driven position during the discussions. The meeting could be held at the residence of Union Minister J. P. Nadda, his office, or any other venue agreed upon by both sides. He added that he would also attend the meeting if necessary. According to him, the crisis can gradually be resolved through dialogue.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made another important announcement for examination candidates on Thursday morning. He said a special fast track court will be established to ensure the speedy trial of those involved in the examination paper leak.
Despite the government’s initiative, the protests have not stopped. Protesters have continued their demonstrations, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET examination paper leak.
Representatives of the protesters said that if the government is genuinely interested in talks, it must come to Jantar Mantar or another neutral venue for the discussions. They also remain firm in their demand for the resignation of the education minister.
Source: Aajkaal (Adapted)
