TMC MP Derek O’Brien urges Opposition MPs to stand firm with students and youth

Trinamool Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Derek O’Brien on Monday called on Opposition parliamentarians to remain steadfast in supporting students and young people, saying their actions, both inside and outside Parliament, should reflect the aspirations and struggles of the country’s youth.

In a post on the social media platform X, O’Brien said students had taken the lead in raising their concerns and deserved full backing of Opposition parties.
“Note To Self. We must not fail our students and youth. We must not let them down. All credit to the champions. They have done the heavy lifting,” he wrote.

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Emphasising the role of elected representatives, the Trinamool Congress leader said Opposition MPs should ensure their conduct and political interventions match the commitment shown by young protesters. “From here onward, whatever we MPs from the Opposition do inside Parliament, outside Parliament and on the streets must reflect that,” he added.

His remarks came amid continued political confrontations over issues affecting students, including the controversy surrounding examination irregularities and the nationwide protests that have dominated the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the Centre of failing to protect the interests of students and have demanded accountability over alleged lapses in the conduct of public examinations.

The Trinamool Congress has been among the parties raising the issue both in Parliament and outside, with its leaders backing student-led demonstrations and pressing for discussions on education-related concerns. O’Brien’s latest message underscores the Opposition’s attempt to keep the spotlight on the demands of students and youth as Parliament continues to witness sharp exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches.