Speaker Calls for Merit and Accountability After Campus Violence

Punjab’s legislative speaker, Kuldeep Singh Sandhwan, addressed the nation on July 23 after a series of violent incidents targeting protestors over exam paper leaks. He underscored that the youth are not only the future of their families but also the backbone of the country’s progress.

Sandhwan highlighted that the recent leaks have robbed talented students of opportunities and that the government’s reaction—deploying police with lathis—was a stark violation of democratic principles. He demanded that the administration enforce a merit‑based admission system, similar to reforms successfully implemented in other regions.

The speaker stressed the need for immediate ministerial accountability, suggesting that the resignation of the official responsible for examinations would restore public confidence. He also referenced the heartbreaking number of student suicides linked to the ongoing scandal, urging that the promised fast‑track court be set up without delay.

According to the speaker, more than five hundred paper‑leak cases have been registered across the state, and investigations have already led to several arrests. He warned that suspects from neighboring states, including Rajasthan and Haryana, will also be brought to justice. The speaker concluded by asserting that the government will not repeat the use of force against its young citizens.