"Rahul Gandhi Calls for Amit Shah's Removal Over Student Crackdown: 'Culpable or Incompetent?'"

Congress Leader Accuses Government of Using Legislation as Punishment Tool

In a fiery speech, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government's approach to the recent legislation, labeling it as a "punishment tool" rather than an effective solution to combat paper leaks. Gandhi specifically targeted Home Minister Amit Shah, calling for his dismissal over the use of pellet guns against protesting students.

Gandhi raised concerns over the police crackdown on protesters during the Parliament march on July 22, questioning Shah's role in the decision-making process. He stated, "Either Shah ordered the use of pellet guns against students, or he was unaware of the situation. In either case, he must be held accountable."

Earlier in the day, Gandhi's remarks were expunged from the record in the Lok Sabha, leading to a heated exchange with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Despite facing pressure to apologize, Gandhi stood firm, stating, "I will never apologize to the BJP or the RSS."

Gandhi further alleged that protesters were subjected to police brutality during the Chalo Sansad CJP march, with reports of beatings and the use of lathis with nails. He criticized the Delhi Police and the Rapid Action Force for their actions, attributing the violence to the Union Home Minister.

Gandhi claimed that his attempts to seek answers from Amit Shah regarding the use of force and pellet guns went unanswered. He questioned Shah's absence from Parliament discussions, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in addressing the student protests.

Amidst the ongoing controversy, Gandhi criticized the BJP's image-building efforts, stating, "Images are being created to portray Shah as the hero and Modi as the god. However, the reality is far from it. I stand with the students who have been subjected to injustice."

Gandhi also took aim at the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, describing it as a mere punishment tool rather than an effective deterrent against paper leaks. He highlighted the need for comprehensive measures to prevent exam paper leakages, not just punitive actions.

Addressing concerns about FIRs filed against students despite assurances of no action, Gandhi emphasized the need to protect student rights and hold the government accountable for its actions. He called for transparency and fairness in dealing with the aftermath of the protests.