EducationReform – Jairam Ramesh Questions PM’s Response to Exam Leak Row Amid Protests

EducationReform –Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Friday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his recent video message addressing examination paper leak concerns, claiming the government responded only after sustained public pressure. Ramesh argued that the Centre had repeatedly failed to safeguard students’ interests and said confidence among young aspirants had been severely affected by the handling of recent examination controversies. His remarks came as political disagreements over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 irregularities continued during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.

Congress raises questions over government’s response

In a post on X, Ramesh said the Prime Minister ended what he described as a two-month silence on the issue through a late-night video message. According to the Congress leader, the government’s earlier position consistently denied any paper leak in the NEET-UG 2026 examination. He alleged that officials, including the Union Education Ministry, had avoided acknowledging the issue during public statements and before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education.

Ramesh claimed the government’s latest position reflected growing public concern rather than a proactive response. He maintained that sustained protests and criticism had compelled the Centre to address the allegations more directly.

Concerns over previous examination investigations

The Congress general secretary also referred to earlier examination controversies, particularly the NEET-UG 2024 case. He alleged that authorities initially downplayed irregularities despite concerns raised over the concentration of top-ranking candidates at a limited number of examination centres.

Ramesh further questioned the progress of investigations into the alleged leak linked to Hazaribagh. He claimed there had been inconsistencies in the official stand regarding individuals previously identified as key accused. He also referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation’s closure report in the cancelled UGC-NET 2024 examination, stating that questions remained over the reasons cited in the investigation.

Opposition demands greater accountability

The Congress leader argued that the controversy reflected broader concerns about accountability in handling examination-related cases. He said weak investigations and political decisions had contributed to the current situation and criticised the government’s response to student demonstrations held earlier this month.

Ramesh also reiterated the Opposition’s demands, including action against those responsible for alleged misconduct during protests, accountability within the Education Ministry, and an apology from the government. Opposition parties and protesting students have continued to seek the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan while pressing for a detailed discussion on the NEET-UG issue in Parliament.

Prime Minister announces tougher measures

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the government would introduce stricter measures to tackle examination paper leaks. In his video message and a post on X, the Prime Minister stated that directions had been issued for the establishment of Fast-Track Courts to ensure quicker handling of such cases. He also indicated that additional decisions aimed at strengthening action against paper leaks would be considered by the Union Cabinet.

The Prime Minister’s announcement came as demonstrations over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 irregularities continued in several places, with students demanding greater transparency in the examination process and stronger safeguards against future malpractice.

PM extends message to Sonam Wangchuk

Separately, Prime Minister Modi wished environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk a speedy recovery after he ended his 26-day hunger strike. In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister urged Wangchuk to follow medical advice and regain his health. Wangchuk concluded his fast on Friday at Medanta Hospital in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, along with senior representatives of the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh.

The developments surrounding the examination controversy and the government’s proposed reforms are expected to remain a key political issue as Parliament continues its Monsoon Session, with both the ruling alliance and the Opposition maintaining sharply different positions on the matter.