PM Modi forgives 'misguided children' over Jantar Mantar abuse; Congress says 'country wants apology'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 31) said it pained him that he and even his late mother were subjected to abusive language during the protests over National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) irregularities at Jantar Mantar, but asserted that the 'misguided children' responsible should be forgiven and guided rather than punished. NEET UG Counselling LIVE updates.

In a late-night video message posted on Instagram, PM Modi said he understood the anguish prevailing in society but stressed that he wants to embrace the youth and show them the right path instead of dragging them to court.

"Not only was I subjected to abusive language at Jantar Mantar, but even my late mother was abused there with filthy language. But abuses never solve anything; let's guide the misguided," he said.

"I want to forgive them. People make mistakes, but it was a cultural shock that our daughters are using such abusive language. We must forgive our youth who were misguided; after all, they are our children. It's our duty to show them the right path," he added.

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Students should not be publicly shamed: PM Modi

Modi said there is always scope for correction during childhood and youth to learn from their mistakes. Drawing an analogy, the Prime Minister added, "We don't disown our teeth even if they bite our tongue; both belong to us, just as our youth are our own."

The Prime Minister said taking such children to court or publicly shaming them would not change the situation. "Society should also accept my submission because sometimes people go astray, but that does not mean they should be punished. The children are ours. It is our responsibility to show them the correct path. It is a hard task, but I have to do it," he said. PM concluded with an appeal to look forward and take the country ahead.

The Congress, however, took a swipe at PM Modi over his remarks, saying the country expected an apology from him instead. Tagging Modi's video message on X, Congress media and publicity department head Pawan Khera wrote in Hindi, "Listen to this. The country is asking him to apologise, yet he has forgiven the country."

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CJP protest

The students' agitation, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), began at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on June 20 over NEET irregularities. The 36-day protest ended on July 25 after the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the government's acceptance of the protesters' demands.

(With PTI Inputs)