ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) on Thursday condemned the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) protest held along National Highway-415 opposite Rajiv Gandhi Bhawan here on July 22, alleging that the demonstration was undemocratic and conducted without the requisite permission.

In a statement, APCC General Secretary (Organisation and Administration) and spokesperson Chera Taya alleged that the protest reflected the BJP’s “political desperation” and was an attempt to divert attention from issues relating to the alleged National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak and examination irregularities.

He claimed the ruling party had no moral authority to criticise the Congress while questions continued to be raised over the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the future of students affected by alleged examination irregularities.

The APCC also asserted that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has consistently raised issues concerning NEET aspirants, paper leaks, unemployment and educational inequality, and accused the BJP of attempting to shift the focus away from these concerns.

The party further alleged that the protest was particularly concerning because it was organised by the ruling party outside the headquarters of the principal Opposition party, describing it as an act that raises questions over political intimidation, misuse of power and adherence to democratic conventions.

Claiming that the Capital administration and police had not granted permission for the demonstration, the APCC demanded a thorough and impartial inquiry into the circumstances under which the protest was organised. It said that if the event was held without the required permission, appropriate administrative and legal action should be taken in accordance with the law.

The APCC maintained that the law should be applied uniformly to all political parties and organisations and urged the administration to ensure that no party, irrespective of whether it is in power, is allowed to violate established laws and democratic norms.

Reiterating its stand, the Congress said it remains committed to democratic debate, peaceful political mobilisation and constitutional methods of protest, while affirming that it would continue to raise issues concerning students, unemployment, examination irregularities, corruption and governance.