Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have announced a joint protest march in Mumbai on July 26. The demonstration concerns the NEET exam controversy and alleged police action against students. The event, which has received support from opposition leaders, reflects growing public dissatisfaction regarding exam integrity and administrative response.
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In a rare political development, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray are set to lead a joint protest march in Mumbai on July 26. The demonstration aims to address public concern surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) examination and reports of police conduct toward students.
The march is scheduled to proceed from Shivaji Park and conclude at the Siddhivinayak temple. According to the leaders, the objective of the gathering is to highlight the frustration expressed by students and their families regarding exam-related irregularities. The event is expected to draw support from various opposition groups, including the Maharashtra Congress, with national-level backing signaled by the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.
While the protest focuses on the NEET examination scandal—a major issue currently affecting students and educational institutions nationwide—the leaders have emphasized that the event is intended to be a peaceful demonstration. Raj Thackeray stated that no political flags would be allowed during the march to keep the focus strictly on the grievances of the students. He also cautioned against any attempts to disrupt the peace during the rally.
This movement comes after several incidents of student unrest and protests across major cities, including New Delhi and Mumbai. The leaders have publicly challenged the government's handling of the situation, particularly questioning the response to demonstrations where police action was reported. As the protest date approaches, the primary focus for stakeholders will be the impact of such large-scale public demonstrations on local law and order, as well as the potential for renewed government action to address the underlying concerns regarding examination processes and accountability.