Yoga guru Baba Ramdev has warned the Narendra Modi government over alleged irregularities in education and recruitment examinations, saying public agitation could intensify if the issues are not addressed.
Speaking to reporters at Patanjali Yogpeeth on India’s 80th Independence Day, Ramdev said students were raising concerns over a range of issues, including inadequate facilities in educational institutions, alleged question-paper leaks and irregularities in government recruitment.
He said the government should act promptly to address the concerns or risk facing renewed protests.
“Fix this problem, or else Baba Ramdev will have to protest again,”
Ramdev said, referring to his earlier anti-corruption agitation at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan in 2011.
Ramdev flags alleged recruitment irregularities
The yoga guru alleged that corruption and money power were influencing the selection process for government jobs.
He also claimed that students were protesting over the lack of basic facilities such as teachers, electricity, drinking water and toilets in schools and colleges.
According to Ramdev, allegations of cheating and question-paper leaks have further fuelled frustration among students and job aspirants.
He criticised what he described as a system in which recruitment could allegedly be influenced by corruption, caste and religion.
Ramdev also urged the government to take the concerns of students seriously rather than allowing the situation to escalate.
‘Protests must remain within constitutional limits’
While backing the right of young people to raise their concerns, Ramdev cautioned protesters against violence and lawlessness.
He said the youth, including members of Gen Z, should fight for their rights while respecting the Constitution and democratic principles.
“I don’t support anarchy and lawlessness under the garb of protests,” he said, while maintaining that grievances over alleged irregularities could not simply be ignored.
Ramdev’s comments come amid growing public attention over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and recruitment processes.
Calls for unity among Indians
Ramdev also used the occasion to speak against divisions based on caste, religion and political affiliations.
He criticised hostility between different communities and called for people to reject hatred and focus on national unity.
He said India should work towards strengthening education, healthcare and the economy while ensuring dignity and self-respect for its citizens.
The yoga guru also appealed to young Indians not to resort to violence while pursuing their demands.