Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had forgiven the protesters after a teenager apologised following online backlash.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he had forgiven the young protesters who used abusive language against him during the recent NEET protest demonstrations, saying that punishing children through court cases would not solve the underlying issues.
In a video posted on Instagram, Modi said some “misguided youngsters” had insulted both him and his late mother. Rather than pursuing legal action, he said society should guide young people instead of punishing them.
“Mistakes happen in childhood,” Modi said. “The children are ours, and we must show them the right path.” He added that taking children to court would not help change the situation and expressed hope that society would also support a more forgiving approach.
The Prime Minister also said he found it culturally shocking to hear “our daughters use this kind of language” during the protests.
Teen apologizes after viral video
Modi’s remarks came after a video showing a protester allegedly using abusive language against the Prime Minister went viral on social media.
The teenager, identified by several Indian media outlets as Ruchika Singh, later released a public apology, clarifying that she is 15 years old after some earlier reports had incorrectly described her as an adult.
Appearing with folded hands, Singh said she had been influenced by others at the protest.
“I seek forgiveness from the whole nation,” she said, adding that it was her “first and last mistake” and that she deeply regretted her remarks.
Police case sparks debate
The controversy also led to legal action.
According to Indian media reports, a Zero FIR was registered after a complaint alleged that the remarks lowered the dignity of the Prime Minister’s office and had the potential to disturb public order. Delhi Police have been examining the complaint.
The case triggered debate over whether criminal proceedings against a minor were appropriate.
Sourav Das, spokesperson for the Cockroach Janta Party, one of the groups associated with the NEET protests, criticized the FIR, calling it “absolutely unjustifiable.” He argued that using police action against a teenager was inappropriate and appealed to authorities to stop targeting young protesters.
Background to the protests
The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET examination paper leak, which prompted widespread demonstrations by students demanding accountability and reforms.
Modi has recently used Instagram to communicate directly with young people about the issue, promising measures to strengthen examination security and later thanking students for their suggestions. His latest message emphasized reconciliation, saying that forgiveness and guidance were preferable to prolonged legal action against young protesters.
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Source: Khaleej Times
Photo: Screengrab from Narendra Modi/Instagram
