Yuhanon Mar Diascoros, Metropolitan and president of Orthodox Church’s media wing.

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church has condemned the police action against students protesting at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and urged the authorities to address their concerns through dialogue and constructive action.

In a statement, Yuhanon Mar Diascoros, Metropolitan and president of the church’s media wing, said the use of force against protesters undermined the very foundation of democracy. At the same time, he urged the youth to exercise restraint and ensure that their protests did not descend into violence.

“Those in authority must find a meaningful and constructive response to the concerns being raised by students and young people across the country over irregularities in competitive examinations. The energy and enthusiasm of the younger generation should not be squandered on the streets in protest. Instead, their intellect and creativity should be channelled towards nation building. Unfortunately, many young people today are gripped by frustration and disillusionment,” he said.

The Metropolitan noted that the Prime Minister’s description of the leakage of examination question papers as an "unpardonable crime" underscored the gravity of the issue. Referring to the alleged NEET question paper leak and the subsequent cancellation of examinations, he said the developments had caused immense emotional distress to thousands of students and their families.

“The tragic deaths by suicide of young students whose dreams were shattered and the anguish of their grieving families, remain a profound indictment of our collective conscience. The stain of corruption on the pages of learning is wholly incompatible with the ideals of a progressive society. The authorities must urgently respond to the entirely legitimate demand for an education system that is transparent, fair and free from corruption, and take prompt, empathetic steps to address these concerns,” he added.

Published - July 22, 2026 07:00 pm IST