PM Modi Calls NEET Paper Leak a ‘Grave Sin’, Says Swift Action Taken Against Accused
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asserted that the Centre responded without delay after the NEET examination paper leak surfaced, describing the incident as a "grave sin" and reaffirming that safeguarding students' future remains a top priority. His remarks came during the NDA Parliamentary Party's 'Mangal Milan' meeting amid continuing political debate over the examination controversy and student protests.
According to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who briefed reporters after the meeting, the Prime Minister said the government moved quickly once the irregularities came to light and ensured action against those allegedly involved. He stated that 13 accused are currently in custody and stressed that every individual responsible must face the toughest punishment permitted under the law.
Highlighting the seriousness of examination leaks, the Prime Minister reportedly told NDA MPs that protecting the integrity of competitive examinations is a national responsibility. He said the government would not compromise on accountability and would continue taking stringent legal action against those attempting to undermine the education system.
During his interaction with alliance lawmakers, Modi also appealed to political leaders to guide young people constructively rather than provoking them. He said the youth should be encouraged to remain on the right path and urged elected representatives to help students through positive engagement instead of inflaming tensions.
His comments came a day after widespread protests in Delhi over the NEET controversy, during which demonstrators attempting to march towards Parliament were stopped by security forces, leading to clashes and political criticism from opposition parties.
Meanwhile, the legal battle over the examination issue is also set to continue, with the Supreme Court scheduled to hear multiple petitions seeking reforms in the examination process, including demands for the restructuring of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and a court-monitored CBI investigation into the alleged irregularities.
The government's outreach to protesters also continued, with Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda holding discussions with representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), who have been leading demonstrations over the NEET issue. The meeting marked the first formal dialogue between the Centre and the protest leaders since the agitation intensified.
