‘No Political Flags’: Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Announce Joint Mumbai March Over NEET Leak Row on July 26

In a rare show of political unity, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray have announced a joint protest march in Mumbai on July 26 over the alleged NEET paper leak and reported police action against student demonstrators.

The two leaders said the march aims to amplify the concerns of students and parents demanding accountability and reforms following the controversy surrounding the national medical entrance examination.

Joint Protest to Highlight Students’ Concerns

Speaking at a joint press conference on Thursday, Uddhav Thackeray said the proposed morcha would serve as a platform to convey the growing frustration among students and their families.

He also revealed that he had spoken with Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, adding that leaders from the Maharashtra Congress are expected to participate in the march.

Criticising the government’s handling of the protests, Uddhav questioned the reported use of force against demonstrators.“Will the Prime Minister take responsibility for policemen who assaulted students and tore the clothes of women protesters?” he asked.

He further stated that despite the government’s approach, students were continuing their protests without fear.

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Raj Thackeray: ‘No Political Flags During the March’

Raj Thackeray said the protest march will begin from Shivaji Park and conclude at the Siddhivinayak Temple in Mumbai.

Emphasising that the event is intended to focus on students’ issues rather than party politics, he announced that no political flags would be allowed during the march.

Raj also claimed that the government had come under increasing pressure as the student movement had gained momentum across the country.

He warned against any attempts to disrupt the demonstration, saying action would be taken against those trying to interfere with the peaceful protest.

Background

Mumbai has witnessed several demonstrations in solidarity with the student movement that began in New Delhi, where protesters have demanded accountability over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination-related concerns.

The announcement of the July 26 morcha comes days after large-scale protests in the national capital, where thousands of students and supporters marched towards Parliament during the Monsoon Session.

According to the organisers, the Mumbai march is intended to provide a platform for students and parents to express their concerns while urging authorities to address issues related to examination transparency and public confidence in the education system.