The political battle over the NEET UG controversy intensified on Thursday as Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of misleading students and creating fear among NEET aspirants across the country.
Speaking amid the ongoing debate over the alleged NEET paper leak, Pradhan said political leaders should act responsibly when issues related to students and their future are involved.
Dharmendra Pradhan Targets Rahul Gandhi
Addressing the controversy, the Union Education Minister alleged that Rahul Gandhi and opposition leaders have been spreading anxiety among young aspirants preparing for competitive examinations.
“Rahul Gandhi misled the NEET aspirants. We should not create fear in the minds of the younger generation. Everyone has a responsibility towards the future of students,” Pradhan said.
The minister emphasized that education-related matters should remain above political interests and urged all stakeholders to prioritize students’ welfare.
Opposition Demands Accountability
The remarks come as opposition parties continue to attack the Centre over allegations surrounding the NEET UG examination. Several opposition leaders have demanded accountability and called for action over the alleged irregularities linked to the examination process.
The NEET controversy has become a major political issue, with student groups and political parties seeking transparency in the conduct of the medical entrance examination.
Minister Raises Questions Over Opposition Rallies
Pradhan also questioned the timing of political events organized by opposition leaders ahead of crucial examinations.
Referring to a Congress rally held in Kota before the examination period, he argued that such political activities could impact students preparing for high-pressure competitive tests.
The minister further cited an incident in Karnataka, claiming that three students faced difficulties reaching their examination centres because of a political gathering held in Bengaluru.
According to Pradhan, political parties should ensure that public events do not create obstacles for students appearing in national-level examinations.
Remarks on Online Activist Campaigns
During his comments, Pradhan also criticized the online movement known as the “Cockroach Janta Party,” describing it as politically aligned with Rahul Gandhi’s agenda.
His remarks add another layer to the ongoing political confrontation between the ruling BJP and opposition parties over the NEET issue.
‘Protectors Turned Predators’
Earlier this week, Pradhan acknowledged concerns surrounding the examination process and stated that individuals entrusted with responsibilities had failed to perform their duties properly.
He remarked that “protectors had turned into predators,” referring to alleged lapses in the examination system and the conduct of officials responsible for maintaining integrity in the process.
NEET Row Continues to Dominate National Debate
The NEET UG controversy remains one of the most discussed education issues in the country, affecting lakhs of medical aspirants and their families.
As investigations and political exchanges continue, students and parents are closely watching developments, hoping for greater transparency, accountability, and reforms to safeguard the credibility of India’s competitive examination system.
The issue is expected to remain at the centre of political and public discourse in the coming weeks as authorities continue to examine allegations and opposition parties press for answers.
