New Delhi witnessed high political drama on July 21, 2026, as Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and several opposition leaders, staged a sit-in protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg.
The protest was organized to demand accountability over the NEET-UG paper leak and alleged police brutality against students. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, insisted on the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and called for a parliamentary discussion on the issue.
Visuals from the protest showed Rahul Gandhi being dragged away by police after refusing to leave the site, with reports of a minor injury near his eye. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was taken to Mandir Marg Police Station, while Rahul Gandhi was moved to Chhatrasal Stadium. Sonia Gandhi later visited the police station in support of her children.
Priyanka Gandhi, after her release, criticized the government, stating: “In a democracy, protesting is a fundamental right. Students have genuine demands, and it is our responsibility to raise their voices. Why is a bill not being introduced to overhaul the education system?”
Congress leaders accused the government of authoritarianism, claiming that Rs 16 lakh crore worth of corporate loans were waived while only Rs 1.4 lakh crore was spent on education. Rahul Gandhi reiterated that the agitation would continue, declaring: “Modiji, try every pressure, exert all your might — this fight for justice for students will not stop now.”
The Delhi Police defended their actions, stating that the leaders were forcibly removed after refusing to disperse. The Centre maintained it was open to a parliamentary discussion but rejected demands for ministerial resignations. Meanwhile, BJP leaders condemned the protest as “unfortunate” and a “black day in Indian politics.”
By late evening, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were released, with large crowds of Congress workers gathering outside police stations to welcome them. The incident has intensified the political confrontation between the opposition and the government during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
