Intro
Davanagere protest seeks NEET cancellation, CET revival as MLA Samarth Shamanur joins students demanding fair admission opportunities
Davanagere
A protest demanding the cancellation of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and the reintroduction of the previous Common Entrance Test (CET) system was held in Davanagere, with MLA Samarth Shamanur participating in the rally.
The protest march was organised by the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI), district Congress organisations and students from various colleges to highlight concerns over students’ future, equal access to education and a fair admission system.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Samarth Shamanur urged the central government to scrap the national-level NEET examination and restore the earlier CET system, stating that it would better serve the interests of Karnataka students.
The protesters alleged that NEET has created difficulties for students from rural areas and middle-class families, affecting equal opportunities in medical education. They argued that the CET system is more suitable as it aligns with Karnataka’s education structure, syllabus and the needs of local students.
During the protest, NSUI office-bearers, district Congress leaders, college students and party workers took part in the rally and raised slogans supporting students’ demands.
The protesters maintained that restoring the old CET system would reduce pressure on students and provide a more balanced opportunity for candidates across different regions and socio-economic backgrounds.
The demonstration began from Jaidev Circle in the city and witnessed active participation from students and political representatives. Organisers said similar campaigns would continue until their demands are addressed by the authorities.
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The participants said that students’ careers should not be compromised and urged the government to take immediate steps to ensure a fair admission process. They demanded that the state’s concerns regarding entrance examinations be considered while framing education policies.
