Modi seeks to forgive students protesting exam leaks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for forgiveness for students who protested against him, suggesting that legal action and societal torment would not be productive. The protests, which peaked in July, were triggered by leaked national exam papers that necessitated a retest for 2 million students, intensifying anger over the lack of opportunities for young Indians.

Modi stated in a social media video, "These are misled children. Showing them the right path is our duty. Punishing them, making them run around courts, or tormenting them in society will not change the situation." He added, "I want to forgive them. I hope society also accepts this stance of mine."

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These are misled children. Showing them the right path is our duty. Punishing them, making them run around courts, or tormenting them in society will not change the situation.

Tensions flared during demonstrations across the country, with clashes between protesters and security forces, including tear gas and baton charges in New Delhi. The self-styled Cockroach Janta Party reported hundreds of student arrests, contradicting government assurances of dropping police cases against protesters.

Student protests concluded after the education minister resigned and the government agreed to all demands, including exam system reforms and the withdrawal of police cases. Concurrently, the Modi government is advancing a bill to amend public examination laws, proposing increased prison sentences and fines for exam paper leak offenses.

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I want to forgive them. I hope society also accepts this stance of mine.