New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed pain over the abusive slogans raised against him during the recent NEET protest at Jantar Mantar, including remarks directed at his late mother. However, he appealed to the public not to punish the young protesters, saying they should instead be guided and forgiven.

Reacting to the controversy, Modi said the slogans deeply hurt him but stressed that the students should not be judged harshly for their actions. He urged society to help them learn from the incident and move forward in a positive direction.

“I was deeply hurt, but I appeal to everyone not to punish these young people. Forgive them, guide them and help them move ahead,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister’s remarks have sparked a political row, with the Congress criticising his response and raising questions over the government’s handling of the NEET issue.

The controversy erupted after videos from the NEET protest at Jantar Mantar showed abusive slogans being raised against the Prime Minister, including references to his late mother. The incident has triggered widespread political debate, with leaders from different parties reacting to the episode.