Rahul Gandhi Criticizes PM Modi Over NEET UG 2026 Paper Leak Controversy
In a recent session of the Lok Sabha, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the NEET UG 2026 paper leak incident. He raised serious concerns about the failure to remove Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan from his position despite repeated leaks of examination papers. This demand has garnered support from several prominent opposition leaders, while the ruling party has advised Gandhi against politicizing such a sensitive issue.
In a post on the social media platform 'X', Rahul Gandhi compared the government's handling of the NEET paper leak incidents from 2024 and 2026. He urged Prime Minister Modi to address the pressing questions facing the nation.
Questions Raised by Rahul Gandhi
In his post, Gandhi criticized the government's actions, stating, "The NEET 2024 paper was leaked, yet the exam was not canceled, and the minister did not resign. A CBI investigation was initiated, and a committee was formed. Now, with the NEET 2026 paper leak, the exam has been canceled, but the minister still hasn't stepped down. The CBI is investigating again, and another committee will be established. PM Modi, the country is asking you some questions - please provide answers! Why do these leaks keep happening? Why are you always silent on this 'exam paper discussion'? Why haven't you removed the education minister who has repeatedly failed?"
Support from Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah openly supported Rahul Gandhi's demand for the immediate dismissal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS alliance of completely ruining the education system in the country. Siddaramaiah highlighted that over one lakh students in Karnataka and more than 22 lakh candidates nationwide are living in uncertainty due to the Modi government's failure to conduct fair and secure examinations. It is noteworthy that the NEET UG exam held on May 3 was canceled following allegations of paper leaks.
BJP's Counterattack
On the other hand, the BJP defended the government regarding the NEET UG 2026 incident and retaliated against Congress and Rahul Gandhi. BJP leader Bhandari posted on 'X', stating that the Modi government took immediate and strict action upon discovering the irregularities and has consistently stood firm in the interests of students. He mentioned that the exam was canceled as soon as the irregularities were identified, and a re-examination was announced for June 21 without imposing any additional burden on the students.
A BJP spokesperson advised Rahul Gandhi to refrain from politicizing this serious matter concerning the future of 22 lakh students. Before lecturing others, Congress should address its own dismal record during its tenure, which includes the AIPMT leak, SSC scam, CBSE paper leak, and recruitment scams in Congress-ruled states. He clarified that the central government promptly handed the case over to the CBI as soon as the allegations surfaced, and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan publicly accepted responsibility for the entire issue.