Rahul Gandhi Launches ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’, Calls Out Paper Leaks and Education Costs

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ , a nationwide signature campaign aimed at giving students a platform to place their demands directly before the government on issues ranging from paper leaks and examination irregularities to rising education costs and unemployment.

Announcing the initiative on X, Gandhi shared a link inviting students to submit suggestions and sign a petition. He said the campaign seeks to amplify demands for affordable education , fair examinations and dignified employment opportunities , while enabling students to collectively push for reforms.

“If you've suffered because of paper leaks , exam issues, or high fees, if this education system has shattered your dreams, if your family has invested a lifetime of savings in your education, then ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ is your voice,” Gandhi said. Urging wider participation, he added, “Join the movement: Click the link below. Fill in your name and share your ideas. Sign the petition, that's it. More the signatures, louder the goonj!”

The campaign follows Gandhi’s interaction with students at the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ Maha Rally in Kota, Rajasthan, India’s coaching hub and a symbol of the intense pressure faced by competitive exam aspirants. There, he described the education system as a “rejection system” and an “extortion machine” , arguing that families spend enormous sums on coaching and examinations such as NEET, JEE, UPSC, SSC and RRB while facing uncertainty over admissions and jobs.

Linking paper leaks, cancelled examinations, delayed recruitment processes and unemployment, Gandhi said the current system has created a crisis of confidence among India’s youth. Calling it “extremely stressful and unfair” , he urged collective action to ensure students do not suffer from academic and financial distress.

The campaign is part of the Congress’ broader youth outreach programme and follows the party’s recent ‘Palayan Roko, Naukri Do’ campaign and continuing criticism of the Centre over examination controversies. Congress leaders say conventions will now be held in Prayagraj, Patna and Delhi as the movement expands nationwide.