Students’ March Faces Internal Clash, Journalist Allegedly Assaulted

Students demanding the resignation of the education minister took to the streets for the second consecutive day as part of their announced ‘Long March to the Education Ministry’ programme. However, tensions emerged among the protesters over their plan to enter the Secretariat, with disagreements reportedly turning into internal clashes. Allegations also surfaced that a number of students physically confronted and assaulted a journalist covering the demonstration.

The unrest unfolded on Wednesday (15 July) after the completion of the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations. A group of students gathered in different parts of the capital and later moved from the Science Laboratory area towards the Secretariat, aiming to press home their demand.

As the march approached the Secretariat zone, law enforcement agencies took precautionary measures to maintain security. Police personnel were deployed around the area, and a four-tier security arrangement was put in place near the government administrative complex to prevent any untoward incident.

However, the situation among the protesters became tense when discussions began over whether they would be allowed to enter the Secretariat premises. Differences of opinion reportedly surfaced within the group, leading to visible divisions among the students. Some protesters argued in favour of entering the Secretariat, while others appeared uncertain about the next course of action.

When journalists asked the students whom they intended to meet inside the Secretariat and what specific demands they wanted to present, several protesters were unable to provide clear answers. The lack of coordination among the demonstrators became apparent as confusion spread over their leadership and objectives.

The situation also created difficulties for members of the media covering the protest. Some students allegedly behaved aggressively towards journalists, and accusations were made that a few protesters physically attacked a journalist during the incident. The alleged assault raised concerns about the safety of media personnel while reporting on public demonstrations.

Despite the announcement of the march, the number of students gathered in front of the Secretariat was relatively limited compared with the scale of the earlier call for action. Security officials continued monitoring the situation closely as the protesters remained in the area.

The incident highlights the challenges faced by student-led movements when coordination, leadership and communication among participants remain unclear. Authorities are continuing to observe developments around the Secretariat area to ensure public safety and maintain order.