EducationNews – Opposition Intensifies Criticism Over NEET-UG 2026 Leak Controversy
EducationNews – Political reactions over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak grew stronger on Monday, with Bihar Assembly Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav accusing the government of failing to act against corruption linked to examination irregularities.
Speaking to journalists, the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader claimed that incidents involving leaked examination papers have become a recurring issue under the current administration. He alleged that influential individuals and criminal networks continue to receive protection instead of facing accountability.
Tejashwi Yadav Questions Government Accountability
Tejashwi Yadav said Bihar has witnessed multiple examination-related controversies in recent years and argued that the latest allegations surrounding NEET-UG 2026 reflect a larger governance failure. According to him, authorities have repeatedly failed to take strict action against those responsible for such incidents.
He further claimed that despite repeated controversies connected to recruitment and entrance examinations, no prominent official or political figure linked to the ruling establishment has faced serious consequences. The RJD leader maintained that the public deserves transparency and stronger action against individuals involved in examination malpractice.
Rahul Gandhi Demands Minister’s Resignation
The controversy has also triggered sharp reactions from the Congress party. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi criticised the BJP-led Union government and renewed his demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
In a social media post, Rahul Gandhi compared the handling of NEET 2024 and NEET 2026, arguing that repeated paper leak allegations indicate systemic weaknesses in the examination process. He questioned why such incidents continue to occur despite previous investigations and committees formed after earlier controversies.
The Congress leader also asked why responsibility had not been fixed at the ministerial level despite recurring complaints linked to national-level examinations. His remarks added to the growing political pressure surrounding the issue.
CBI Continues Investigation Into Examination Process
The matter has now reached a crucial stage as the Central Bureau of Investigation continues its inquiry into the alleged leak. On Sunday, the agency presented accused Manisha Gurunath Mandhare before Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court and sought extended custody for further questioning.
Mandhare was associated with the National Testing Agency panel and reportedly worked as an expert and translator during the examination process. During court proceedings, the CBI informed the court that the entire mechanism followed by the NTA in conducting the examination is currently under scrutiny.
Investigators are examining several aspects of the process, including the handling of question papers, operational procedures, and possible lapses that may have contributed to the controversy.
Re-Examination Scheduled for June 21
Amid mounting concerns among students and parents, authorities have announced that the NEET-UG re-examination will be conducted on June 21. The decision was taken following allegations of a paper leak and the subsequent cancellation of the earlier examination.
The issue has once again raised broader concerns over the credibility and security of large-scale competitive examinations in India. Students preparing for medical admissions have expressed anxiety over uncertainty surrounding the process and repeated disruptions caused by examination controversies.
In response to the criticism, the Union Education Minister recently announced a major change in the examination pattern. Beginning next year, NEET-UG will reportedly be conducted in computer-based test mode as part of efforts to strengthen security measures and reduce the risk of paper leaks.
The latest developments continue to dominate political discussions as opposition leaders demand stricter accountability while investigative agencies proceed with their probe into the matter.