Modi breaks silence, terms NEET paper leak ‘grave sin’

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday dubbed the NEET exam paper leak a “grave sin” (ghor paap) and urged the Centre and all state governments to jointly combat the menace, asserting that strong action has already been taken against those jeopardising the future of students.

In his first public remarks on the NEET irregularities, Modi told National Democratic Alliance (NDA) MPs that the issue is a matter of national interest, not party politics, and that a united front is essential to protect the aspirations of the youth.

Addressing the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting — named ‘Mangal Milan’ as it is usually held on Tuesdays — Modi said the government acted swiftly after reports of the NEET paper leak surfaced. 

Thirteen people were arrested and sent to jail, and a re-examination was conducted promptly to ensure that students’ futures were not compromised, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju told reporters after the meeting.

“The prime minister termed the NEET paper leak a ‘ghor paap’. He emphasised that strong action has been taken so that no one can play with the future of the youth,” Rijiju said.

Modi stressed the need for seamless coordination between the Centre and states, irrespective of political affiliations. “This is not a matter of party politics but a matter of national interest,” he told the MPs.

The remarks come a day after thousands of protesters, brought together by opposition parties under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), marched towards Parliament in New Delhi on the first day of the Monsoon Session, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. 

Police used batons and tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.

Rijiju said Modi highlighted that, despite the inconvenience caused by the re-examination, the test was held without delay and results were declared promptly. The government has also engaged top lawyers to ensure that those responsible receive exemplary punishment.

The prime minister advised NDA MPs to remain closely connected with the people, especially the youth, “with warmth and affection” and earn their trust. 

He suggested a national outreach programme led by MPs to address students’ concerns and counter attempts to mislead them.

Modi also reiterated that those found guilty in the paper leak racket must face the strictest possible punishment so that such incidents are not repeated. “We must punish the guilty and build a foolproof system,” he added.