Expressing solidarity with the democratic, non-violent protest of environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk for education reforms, the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) has announced a statewide candlelight programme on Sunday, July 19.
The student body also condemned the government’s forcible eviction of Wangchuk from the protest site.
The candlelight programme will be held across all district headquarters under the aegis of AASU’s district units. In a statement, AASU president Utpal Sarma and general secretary Samiran Phukan said the issue raised by Wangchuk transcends political ideology and directly concerns the future of millions of students, particularly in the context of the NEET examination.
The organisation said repeated irregularities in major examinations have exposed deep flaws in the education system. It noted that every student appearing for NEET undergoes severe mental stress, with several students reportedly dying by suicide. According to AASU, such incidents have eroded public trust in the education system, making immediate government intervention essential.
AASU further urged the government to engage in dialogue with stakeholders instead of adopting an “egoistic” approach. The student body stressed that democratic protests deserve respect, as the future of the country’s younger generations is at stake.
The union also said that those responsible for the country’s education system must be held accountable. It described the recurring controversies surrounding NEET as a serious systemic crisis and called for urgent reforms.
Reiterating its support for Sonam Wangchuk’s democratic movement, AASU said his protest has highlighted critical issues concerning India’s education system and the future of students.
‘Education System In Crisis’: AASU Holds Candlelight Programme Across Assam On Sunday
