ESMA implemented in Uttarakhand, strikes prohibited for six months..
Big news is coming from Uttarakhand. The Uttarakhand government has implemented the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) across the state, under which any strike will be banned for the next six months. Personnel Secretary Shailesh Bagauli has issued orders regarding this. Protesters demanded an immediate halt to recruitment process This decision was taken in view of the ongoing protests by employee organizations. Due to this being an election year, employee organizations are preparing for a protest. Employees are pressuring the government to implement the old SP system before the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission. Immediately after the government implemented the ESMA in the state, Congress and D.El.Ed. trained candidates protested outside the Uttarakhand Subordinate Services Selection Commission program due to allegations of rigging in the secondary assistant teacher recruitment. The protesters locked the commission’s gate and demanded an immediate halt to the recruitment process. The commission took action and postponed document verification for the remaining posts. During the protest last Thursday, Congress state vice-president Suryakant Dhamana also reached the protest site and raised slogans in support of the protest activities. After this, angry people locked the gate of the commission.
Dr. Vipin Gaur Meets Minister Dr. L. Murugan – A Warm and Useful Conversation…
Dr. Vipin Gaur, the General Secretary of the Newspaper Association of India, sat down with Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan, for a courteous and open conversation. It wasn’t some stiff formal event. It was a proper discussion where both sides talked freely about the things that actually matter to Indian media right now. Dr. Gaur told the minister about the work his association has been doing across the country – the programmes they run, the efforts they make to stand up for newspapers and journalists, and the steps they’re taking to keep journalism ethical and responsible. He spoke about how digital media is growing so fast these days, how broadcasting needs better technology, and how the Indian film and entertainment world can become stronger on the world stage. They also talked about giving young people more chances in these fields and encouraging fresh ideas. What stood out was how Dr. Gaur appreciated the minister’s simple and humble way of working. He said Dr. Murugan’s quiet commitment to growing the information and broadcasting sector, keeping creative conversations alive, and making the media community stronger really comes through. That kind of approach makes people feel heard. They didn’t just stick to one topic. They exchanged thoughts on several important issues that are in the news these days, and the tone stayed positive throughout. At the end, Dr. Gaur shared a clear hope – that if the government, media institutions, and journalists’ organisations keep talking and working together, Indian media, journalism, and the creative industries will find a better direction. He believes this kind of steady cooperation will make responsible, trustworthy journalism even stronger. The Newspaper Association of India has been quietly doing a lot of groundwork – protecting journalists’ interests, supporting media education, helping young reporters build skills, and recognising good work at the national level. Meetings like this one give them a chance to share what’s happening on the ground and also hear the government’s side of things. It’s the kind of conversation that doesn’t make big headlines every day, but it matters. When people from the media side and the government side sit across a table and talk honestly about technology changes, digital growth, broadcasting upgrades, and how to keep public interest at the centre, something useful usually comes out of it. Dr. Gaur explained the association’s different initiatives in detail, and the minister listened. That simple exchange of information and ideas is how better understanding starts. Both sides seem to want the same basic things – a stronger, more professional media that serves people well and can hold its own internationally, especially in films and entertainment where so many young talents are looking for opportunities. In a time when everything is changing so quickly – from how news reaches us to how stories are told on screens – these calm, respectful conversations help everyone stay on the same page. No drama, no big speeches. Just two people who care about the media ecosystem sitting together and talking about what needs attention and how things can move forward. Dr. Gaur left the meeting feeling hopeful. He believes that continuous dialogue will give Indian journalism and the creative industries the fresh push they need. And honestly, that kind of quiet confidence is worth noting. The Newspaper Association of India will keep doing its work – supporting journalists, building skills, promoting ethical standards, and recognising people who do good reporting. And conversations like the one with Dr. Murugan help keep the door open so that practical issues can be discussed whenever they come up. That’s really the heart of it. A straightforward, respectful meeting in New Delhi where media and government talked about real concerns and shared a common wish for a stronger, more responsible Indian media landscape. Sources:Smart Vision Samachar, Ghaziabad edition, Thursday 30 July 2026
A high-level task force has been formed for exam reforms, headed by technology expert Nandan Nilekani.
The ongoing Jantar Mantar protest by students in Delhi over the NEET-UG exam paper leak, Prime Minister Modi once again took to social media to make an important announcement regarding the future of students. He announced the formation of a high-level task force on exam reforms, to be led by world-renowned technology expert Nandan Nilekani. On Sunday, July 26th, Prime Minister Modi once again shared a video on his Instagram account, stating, “The government is continuously taking various steps for the future of students. Those who compromised their future are in jail. We have already established fast-track courts. Work is underway to introduce a new law in Parliament, which will include stringent legal provisions. But we also have to look to the future. Our examination system must be reliable and transparent, and it must maximize the use of technology.” Task force will focus on examination reforms Keeping these considerations in mind, we have decided to form a high-level task force under the leadership of world-renowned technology expert Nandan Nilekani. This task force will focus on examination reforms. Based on the report, steps will be taken as soon as possible to ensure the credibility of upcoming examinations. To further improve, improve, and secure the National Testing Agency’s examinations, the central government has formed a multidisciplinary group of domain experts. This high-powered task force will primarily prepare a blueprint for major structural reforms in the system from the perspective of modern technology.” He also stated, This special committee includes top leaders from across the country, including technology expert Nandan Neel, former ISRO Chairman S. Somnath, former Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka, IIT Chennai Director V. Kamkoti, former Education Secretary Anita Agarwal, and logistics expert Amritlal Meena. Nandan Neel is an Indian entrepreneur, having founded the country’s leading IT company, Infosys. He served as the first Chairman of the Unique Identification Authority of India, where he played a key role in the successful implementation of India’s ambitious Aadhaar scheme. He also led the key technology committee, TAGUP (Technology Advisory Group for Unique Projects), within the Ministry of Finance, Government of India. This task force, headed by him, is expected to promote biometric authentication, digital security, computer-based training, and other modern technologies in examinations, thereby preventing incidents like paper leaks.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns Amid Intense NEET Protests..
The demands of the students and CJP protesters who have been protesting at Jantar Mantar for the past month have finally been met. India’s Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned today. He has sent his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. News of the Education Minister’s resignation sparked jubilation at Jantar Mantar, while protesters have been celebrating ever since. Dharmendra Pradhan himself posted the news of his resignation. He released a letter in the post. In the letter, he wrote, “From day one, I took responsibility for the NEET paper leak and never turned my back on this situation. My resolve was to ensure that no meritorious student’s prospects were jeopardized by the exam mafia and that no injustice was done to any student. However, even during this time, individuals in responsible positions attempted to create obstacles, misleading many students, which deeply distressed me. I am determined not to allow the youth power to fall into the vicious cycle of confusion.” On Friday, the National Testing Agency (NTA) had dismissed 47 officers in the NEET paper leak case and it was also said that a criminal case would be registered against the dismissed officers. The officials also talked about taking action to bring about quick reforms in NTA.
Rahul Gandhi Rejects PM Modi’s Video, Demands Minister’s Resignation Over Paper Leaks
Amidst the ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar that have continued for nearly a month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a video on social media on Thursday, stating that the welfare and future of the nation’s youth are the government’s top priority. The Prime Minister announced that the government has decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure punishment for those responsible for the question paper leaks. Prime Minister Modi said, “Instructions have been issued to the concerned departments to ensure necessary action is taken. This is a significant step among the decisions being taken by the government to safeguard the interests of students. No one who plays with the future of the youth will be spared.” It is worth noting that this statement from Prime Minister Modi comes amidst ongoing protests by students and social activists regarding alleged irregularities in various examinations, including question paper leaks. The PM stated that the Cabinet would discuss the relevant draft today and that strict decisions would be taken. Once approved, it will be tabled in Parliament next week, with efforts made to ensure its speedy passage. PM Modi posted a 2.56-minute video message on his X handle. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi took a dig at the video released by PM Modi. Dismissing the video as futile, he asserted that the students’ demands cannot be ignored. He also demanded a discussion on the paper leak issue during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Rahul Gandhi said, “Modi-ji, our students are demanding Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation; do not insult their intelligence by releasing such videos in the middle of the night.” He believes the Prime Minister should fulfill three demands: strict action against those responsible for the lathi-charge, an apology from Prime Minister Modi, and the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan.
Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka & Akhilesh Detained Outside PM’s Residence During Student Justice Protest, Released After Hours..
On Tuesday, June 21st, the second day of protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) demanding Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation continued at Jantar Mantar. Meanwhile, on Tuesday evening, July 26th, several opposition leaders, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, were detained by the Delhi Police while protesting outside the Prime Minister’s residence. Detained leaders were taken to the Mandir Marg police station However, after a few hours, Rahul Gandhi and the other detained leaders were released from Chhatrasal Stadium. Earlier, some of the detained leaders were taken to the Mandir Marg police station, while others were taken to Chhatrasal Stadium. Meanwhile, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi arrived at the Mandir Marg police station to meet the detained leaders. Following the detention, Rahul Gandhi targeted the central government, saying that the fight for justice for the students would not stop. He said, “Modi ji, use all the force you can, but this fight for justice for the students will not stop.” Rahul Gandhi said that whether the government arrests him or sends him to jail does not matter. He said, “The power of Satyagraha is greater than the power of authority. The government must answer for the injustice done to our children.” Protesters chanted slogans like “Prime Minister, resign,” “Hooliganism will not be tolerated,” and “Give justice to the students.” Shortly after the protest began, police detained Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and several other leaders
CJP Parliament March Turns Chaotic in Delhi: Protesters Demand NEET Scam Probe & Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation
The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) organized a Parliament March today, July 20, in the national capital, Delhi, to protest against the paper leak, NEET exam scam, and unemployment. The CJP has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in connection with the NEET paper leak case, leading to a march by CJP students and activists today. Delhi Police is on high alert regarding the CJP’s protest march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament. Police personnel deployed on Parliament Street began lathi-charging CJP members. Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters entered the Rajiv Chowk Metro Station, creating chaos. The CJP has launched a campaign against the government on three key issues: Delhi Police have deployed heavy security forces at Jantar Mantar and invoked Section 163 in connection with the Parliament march. Police also lathi-charged protesters at Jantar Mantar, a move denied by the police. Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for 23 days, has set three conditions for ending his fast.
Uttarakhand Govt Halts Felling of 3,000 Trees for Dehradun-Rishikesh Road Project Amid Protests
Significant news is emerging regarding the cutting of 3,000 trees for road widening between Bhaniawala and Rishikesh in Dehradun. The Dhami government has temporarily halted the cutting of 3,000 trees after discussions with the central government. The state government states that the cutting of trees for this project will remain suspended until a satisfactory consensus and trust is established with all stakeholders. Numerous citizens, environmentalists, and local residents have been protesting for the past few days regarding the Dehradun-Rishikesh four-lane/six-lane project, resulting in the government temporarily halting tree cutting. The state government maintains that development is essential, but no decision will be made without regard to public sentiment, the environment, and local interests. To this end, the Principal Secretary and relevant officials have been instructed to re-establish detailed dialogue with all stakeholders, local citizens, public representatives, and experts. Further action will be taken in full respect of the High Court’s directives and decision. Additionally, tree felling under this project will be suspended until a satisfactory consensus and trust is reached with all stakeholders. Last Friday, after his visit to Dehradun for the “Chhatraon Ki Goonj” program, Rahul Gandhi went directly to the protest site, where he met with those protesting the tree felling. He also promised to raise the issue in Parliament.
“Despite Heavy Rain, Rahul Gandhi Connects with Students at ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ in Dehradun”
Last Friday, the Congress organized the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” program at Bannu Maidan in Dehradun, the state capital. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi participated in the program and interacted with students. Students from Uttarakhand, as well as Rajasthan, Bihar, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh were present. Despite the inclement weather, there was considerable enthusiasm among activists and students for Rahul Gandhi’s interaction. A large crowd gathered before Rahul Gandhi’s arrival at the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” program, and students from far and wide came to attend. Rahul Gandhi interacted with students at the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” program. He first thanked the youth of Uttarakhand. He expressed his enthusiasm even amid heavy rain, and he said that youth are the identity of the country. Through the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” program, Rahul Gandhi interacted with students regarding irregularities in educational and employment recruitment examinations and the problems faced by youth. This was met with considerable enthusiasm among the youth, and Congress leaders were delighted by the large turnout at the event. The main points of Rahul Gandhi’s address were: Rahul Gandhi said that a young person does not prepare alone; his entire family prepares with him. He said that government jobs are crucial for the middle class, and if a paper is leaked, it can ruin the family. Gandhi said that the manufacturing sector in India is completely shut down, entrepreneurs are in our country, and corporate jobs are also scarce. Along with this, other jobs are also not easily available, hence the only option left for the youth is government jobs.
Rahul Gandhi to Interact with Students, Job Aspirants in Dehradun’s ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ Program
On July 17, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, is visiting Uttarakhand. During this visit, he will participate in the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” (Voice of Students) event organized at the Bannu School grounds in the capital, Dehradun. The primary objective of this event is to establish a direct dialogue with the state’s youth, students, and aspirants preparing for competitive examinations. Rahul Gandhi will listen to the concerns of the youth and seek their views on issues such as unemployment, the education system, alleged irregularities in recruitment exams, and paper leaks. The Congress party states that thousands of youths in Uttarakhand have long been affected by delays in government recruitment processes, exam cancellations, and alleged scams. Consequently, the “Chhatron Ki Goonj” event is being viewed as an initiative to amplify the voice of the youth at the national level. The party claims that this dialogue aims to highlight the genuine problems faced by students and aspirants, thereby facilitating a comprehensive discussion on issues concerning their future. However, a deeply tragic incident occurred just a day before Rahul Gandhi’s visit. On July 16, while inspecting the preparations and arrangements at the Bannu School grounds, a Congress worker suddenly fell ill. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, but doctors declared him dead. This incident has cast a pall of gloom over the Congress leaders and workers involved in the event’s preparations. The party has expressed deep grief over the worker’s demise and conveyed its condolences to his family. The organization of this event had been a subject of discussion from the very beginning. According to the initial plan, Rahul Gandhi’s event was scheduled to take place at Dehradun’s Parade Ground, but the administration revoked the permission for the venue. The Congress subsequently protested against this administrative decision and expressed its displeasure. Party leaders stated that the cancellation of permission impacted the event’s preparations. Protesting against the administration’s decision, several senior Congress leaders and workers, including State Congress President Ganesh Godiyal, staged a demonstration. They alleged that unnecessary obstacles were being created regarding opposition events. Following protests, the party made alternative arrangements and shifted the event venue from Parade Ground to Bannu School Ground, where Rahul Gandhi’s program is now being held. Rahul Gandhi’s visit comes at a time when political debate regarding employment, education, and recruitment processes in Uttarakhand is intensifying. While the Congress is attempting to corner the government by linking these issues to the future of the youth, the tragic death of a Congress worker prior to the event has lent an emotional tone to the proceedings. All eyes are now on the message Rahul Gandhi conveys in his address regarding the concerns of the youth and these critical issues facing the state.