Mangaluru: The Youth Associations and various Commissions of St. Sebastian Church, Bendur, organized a Silent Candlelight Prayer Protest on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in front of the church.
The gathering was held to express solidarity with students affected by the alleged irregularities in the NEET 2026 examination, and to condemn the force used against peaceful protesters. Participants also prayed for the eternal rest of those who lost their lives due to the NEET scam, and offered prayers for the bereaved families, seeking justice for them.
Addressing the gathering, Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza urged everyone to uphold justice, honesty, and transparency in the education system. He emphasized that every hardworking student deserves a fair opportunity, and called upon the faithful to pray for truth, justice, and the future of the nation’s youth.
A large number of youth, religious sisters, parents, parishioners, and members of various parish associations participated in the peaceful protest. Holding lighted candles, the gathering observed a
period of silence and offered prayers, sending a strong message of support for students seeking
justice.
The program concluded with a prayer for peace, wisdom, and fairness for all students, reaffirming
the parish community’s commitment to stand with the youth in their pursuit of justice.