Listen to students’ concerns; do not use force against them: Murli Manohar Joshi
BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi has urged authorities to handle student grievances with empathy rather than force. He emphasized the importance of fair elections and government accountability in maintaining a healthy democracy.
Why it matters
The statement from a senior ruling-party leader regarding student protests and democratic principles carries significant political weight in the current national discourse.
Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Union Minister Murli Manohar Joshi on Thursday (October 8, 2026) urged authorities to respond to student grievances with restraint and empathy.
Speaking to reporters at the 21st FICCI Higher Education Summit in New Delhi, Mr. Joshi said students raising legitimate concerns should be given an opportunity to be heard.
“Students are our children... listen to their concerns, don’t hit them with sticks... no solution could be reached through the use of force against young people,” he said.
When asked about the Opposition’s stand on the special intensive revision (SIR) controversy, Mr. Joshi said the functioning of a democracy ultimately depends on fair elections, accountable governments, and a transparent administrative system.
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