Nadda meets delegation linked to Delhi’s anti-quota protest; other organisers reject its role

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda met Harsh Dubey, a NEET aspirant who was part of the August 21 Reservation Hatao Andolan demonstration at Jantar Mantar, and said their discussions were cordial and scheduled in advance.

The movement seeks income-based quotas in place of caste-based reservation. Its wider set of demands includes phasing out caste-based reservation, reviewing the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and withdrawing the University Grants Commission’s 2026 caste-equity rules for campuses.

Dubey called the meeting a positive step for society’s welfare. But other figures associated with the movement, including Ajeet Bharti, Anuradha Tiwari and Neha Das, said he did not represent the group and alleged that his engagement with BJP leaders diverted attention from its demands. Dubey had earlier shared a platform in Lucknow with Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak after Delhi Police cleared the Jantar Mantar protest by the end of August 21.

Nadda said he would meet the activists again. Movement organisers have said they will send their demands to the government and continue the campaign.