The police used water cannons to disperse a spirited All India Students’ Federation (AISF) protest in Thrissur on Friday, as the outfit escalated its attack on the Union government over the NEET-UG paper leak. Tensions flared as AISF activists marched to the BSNL office.

Inaugurating the protest, AISF State joint secretary Aslam Shah strongly criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing the Centre of betraying students. “Casting a shadow over the dreams of 57 lakh students is an unforgivable crime. There can be no pardon for Narendra Modi,” he said, warning that a larger “Gen Z protest” would emerge against the government.

Sharpening his criticism, Mr. Shah questioned the Prime Minister’s educational credentials. “If Narendra Modi cannot produce documents to prove his own educational qualifications, how can he address the crisis in higher education?” he asked.

He also alleged that BJP leaders were involved in the NEET-UG paper leak and said the Central government cannot escape responsibility for the controversy.

“AISF will lead the fight to protect students’ rights across the country,” Mr. Shah asserted.

The protest meet was presided over by AISF Thrissur district president K.S. Abhiram, as police action added to the charged atmosphere of the demonstration.