Gonda: A large gathering of students and Gen-Z youth joined the “Save Education Public Movement” organised by the Rashtriya Chhatra Panchayat at Gandhi Park in Gonda on Tuesday, raising concerns over alleged arbitrary practices by private schools, rising fees and the alleged exploitation of students and parents.
Despite persistent rain, the number of protesters continued to grow throughout the day. The programme began at around 11:30 a.m., and by approximately 1:30 p.m., a large crowd had gathered at Gandhi Park and surrounding areas. Organisers claimed that thousands of people reached the venue through different routes despite police barricading and restrictions.
Barricades Put Up Along LBS Crossing-Sagra Talab Route
Police had installed barricades at several points from LBS Crossing towards Sagra Talab to prevent protesters from entering Gandhi Park. Police personnel attempted to stop students, Gen-Z participants and members of the Rashtriya Chhatra Panchayat as they moved towards the park.
Arguments reportedly broke out between protesters and police at several points. Some protesters climbed onto the barricades, waved the national flag and raised slogans while demanding access to Gandhi Park.
Protest Continued Through Rain
According to Rashtriya Chhatra Panchayat members, the sit-in continued for around 22 hours. The protest reportedly began on Monday afternoon and continued through the night amid rain. Protesters said they remained at the site despite being drenched by the persistent rainfall.
In view of the demonstration, a substantial police presence was deployed to maintain security and manage the crowd. Police personnel from three police stations were reportedly stationed at the site, while the area was also monitored using drone cameras.
Memorandum Submitted to ADM
Following the demonstration, representatives of the Rashtriya Chhatra Panchayat submitted a memorandum outlining their demands to the Additional District Magistrate.
National president Shivam Pandey said one of the organisation’s key demands was a ban on the practice of private schools requiring students to purchase new notebooks, textbooks and uniforms every year. The organisation called for legislation to regulate such practices and demanded equal access to education for all children.
The protesters also demanded a reduction in examination fees at Maa Pateshwari University, seeking that the fee be brought down to ₹800.
Dilapidated Hostel and Closed Gate Issues Raised
Shivam Pandey also raised concerns over the allegedly dilapidated hostel building at Thomson Inter College. He claimed that the structure was in poor condition and could pose a serious safety risk.
The organisation also demanded that a gate at the college be reopened for children who use the ground for evening running and other physical activities.
Student Group Alleges Police Restrictions
Rashtriya Chhatra Panchayat national president Shivam Pandey alleged that police attempted to prevent members from reaching the protest site and accused personnel of behaving in an inappropriate and forceful manner with some activists.
He claimed that the organisation had sought administrative permission for the programme but was not granted approval. He further alleged that a tent installed for the protest was removed by the administration.
Pandey said the restrictions and heavy rain failed to deter participants. According to him, the turnout exceeded the organisation’s expectations, with many people reaching the protest site after learning about the movement independently and extending their support to the campaign.
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