In a rare move, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the protest site in Dehradun amid youth-led agitations over recruitment exams and appealed for calm dialogue to resolve their grievances. He urged students to engage in constructive conversation rather than confrontations.
Our correspondent reports that Dhami described the state’s creation as an effort to improve lives, and said the government was built to serve its people. He emphasised that protestors are “our own” and urged that communications remain open. The CM also noted that the government has implemented the nation’s first strict anti-cheating law and warned that violations would invite consequences.
Our correspondent adds that Dhami addressed students in a tone that mixed firmness and empathy. He said that in his role as Chief Servant of the state, it is his duty to listen to every voice, understand every pain, and reach every heart. He appealed with emotion: “You are part of our family, and your welfare is our priority.” He called for trust and dialogue rather than confrontation.
During his address, Dhami made a significant pledge: if any protestor is facing criminal cases registered during the agitation, those cases would be withdrawn. He called on youth to avoid politicisation of the movement, warning that some forces might exploit their cause. He reassured them that the government is committed to fairness and promised that no injustice would be done to deserving candidates.
Observers say Dhami’s intervention was aimed at deescalating tensions, as protests had drawn increasing numbers of students to the streets. With the UKSSSC controversy still simmering, expectations are high that this appeal may open channels for negotiation between protest leaders and officials.
Protestors earlier had demanded cancellation of the contested exam, appointment of a Central Bureau of Investigation probe, reinstatement of fairness, and removal of implicated officials. Many students expressed frustration over what they see as a system that undermines their future. The presence of political slogans and mass mobilisation had raised concerns that the movement was being steered by other interests.
Dhami’s remarks may change the tone of the agitation. His message blended acknowledgment of student distress with caution about being used as pawns in bigger agendas. He underlined that his government’s record includes over 25,000 recruitments done transparently, and pledged that efforts would continue to protect the rights of youth.
Protest leaders promised to consider the CM’s appeal but reiterated their demands for a full, independent investigation before resuming normalcy. They said they would return to the table only if all voices are heard and assurances delivered in writing.
As the standoff continues, Dhami’s outreach may be a key test of political will and institutional responsiveness. The reaction of youth, student unions and political groups in the coming hours will determine whether the crisis is defused or escalates further.
