Governor Gulabchand Kataria Addresses Paper Leak Issues and Student Union Elections

Ajmer, October 15: Punjab Governor Gulabchand Kataria spoke to the media in Ajmer regarding the ongoing paper leak controversy. He acknowledged that during his tenure as a minister, paper leaks also occurred, and he does not take pride in that fact. Kataria emphasized that the solution to this issue cannot be found through speeches alone; it requires collaboration among all stakeholders. He was in Ajmer to visit the Jain pilgrimage site of Sammed Shikharji but had to stop due to a connecting train delay.

Kataria stated that the problem extends beyond just the cancellation of exams. He highlighted the struggles of poor parents who sacrifice their resources to educate their children, only to see their efforts thwarted by exam cancellations. He called for a permanent solution to prevent future paper leaks and exam cancellations.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has maintained a different stance on the paper leak issue. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma claimed on August 2 that not a single paper leak occurred during the 400 competitive exams held under his administration. Kataria, who has also served as an MLA from Udaipur, echoed these sentiments.

The state is currently grappling with a significant paper leak case involving the Senior Teacher Recruitment Exam-2022, which has led to 70 arrests as of October 13. Allegations have surfaced regarding 29 candidates being extorted for 5.7 million rupees at three locations.

In discussing student union elections, Kataria asserted that students have a democratic right to participate in elections, which should be held in universities. He noted that when student politics turns violent, governments may feel compelled to impose restrictions. However, he stressed that simply imposing a ban is not a lasting solution. Both sides must come together to determine how elections can be conducted without compromising students’ rights or the university environment.

This matter is currently before the courts. The Rajasthan High Court had previously directed the state government to release an annual calendar for student union elections by December 19, 2025. However, the division bench has temporarily stayed these orders following the state government’s appeal. Meanwhile, student organizations have taken to the streets demanding the restoration of elections. In August, over 36 students from the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) were detained during protests in Jaipur, and in July, a leader from the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) climbed a water tank in protest.

On the topic of student movements, Kataria cautioned against violence, stating that victories achieved through unlawful means do not benefit the public. He urged youth to avoid disrupting law and order, emphasizing that the goal of protests should be to convey their message to the government, not to create an environment that endangers innocent students.

He referenced the JP movement, highlighting how Jayaprakash Narayan inspired youth through democratic means even during the Emergency. Reflecting on his own student days, Kataria noted the dominance of leftist groups in universities, which shifted with the rise of the student council.

Kataria also remarked on the responsibilities of elected representatives, stating that after winning elections, they represent the entire public, not just their party. He asserted that good actions should be recognized regardless of their source, and he intends to uphold this principle throughout his life.

“After winning elections, I am not just an MLA of the BJP; I am a representative of the entire Udaipur public,” said Gulabchand Kataria, emphasizing his commitment to serving all constituents.

Ajmer has been a significant area for Kataria, who mentioned he has visited the city numerous times. Now, with his new constitutional responsibilities, he participates in special programs rather than political events.

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Kuldeep Singh Chundawat: My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.