In a powerful display of solidarity, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday pledged his full support to students vehemently protesting against a recent paper leak in Uttarakhand. Gandhi didn’t mince words, declaring that unemployment is inextricably linked to “vote theft” and controversially asserted that “Paper Thief” is now synonymous with the BJP.
Taking to social media, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha intensified his criticism, alleging that the BJP’s primary concern isn’t creating jobs for the nation’s youth, but rather clinging to power through illicit means like “vote theft” during elections.
Gandhi highlighted the recent Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UKSSSC) graduate-level examination leak as a stark example. He lamented how countless young people dedicated their time and effort, only to have their hard work undermined by what he described as a “theft” orchestrated by the ruling party.
“Today, BJP’s other name is ‘Paper Thief’! The repeated instances of paper leaks nationwide have crushed the aspirations and lives of millions of hardworking young individuals,” Gandhi stated passionately.
He continued to press his demand for a robust and transparent system to prevent such leaks. “The Modi government,” he alleged, “is deliberately ignoring this crisis because their focus isn’t on addressing youth unemployment but on maintaining their grip on power.”
Gandhi underscored unemployment as the gravest challenge facing the country, drawing a direct parallel with “vote theft.” He claimed that “these ‘paper thieves’ are aware that even if young people can’t secure jobs, they can still retain power by manipulating votes during elections.”
As a result, he noted, young people are now taking to the streets, chanting the powerful slogan: “Paper Chor, Gaddi Chhod” (Paper Thieves, Leave the Throne).
Gandhi emphasized that this struggle extends beyond just job opportunities; it’s a fundamental battle for justice and the integrity of democracy. He affirmed his unwavering commitment to stand alongside every student and young person in this crucial fight.
It’s worth noting that Gandhi has previously used the term “vote theft” during a recent Voter Adhikar Rally, where he accused the BJP of rigging polls by “illegally” deleting and adding votes in collaboration with the Election Commission—a charge consistently refuted by both the ruling party and the electoral body.
In Uttarakhand, the fallout from the leaked question paper for a September 21 competitive examination has led to widespread student unrest. Under the banner of the Uttarakhand Berozgar Sangh, a significant number of students have established an indefinite protest outside the Parade Ground in Dehradun, demanding accountability and fairness.