Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged National Democratic Alliance (NDA) MPs to actively engage with young people, address their concerns over examination irregularities, and reinforce confidence in the government’s commitment to protecting students’ interests.
The remarks came during the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting, where the Prime Minister spoke publicly on the issue of exam paper leaks for the first time amid nationwide protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET.
According to people familiar with the discussions, Modi said those responsible for question paper leaks must face the harshest legal punishment to ensure such incidents are not repeated. He reportedly described paper leak syndicates as a nationwide menace and stressed that strict enforcement was necessary to safeguard the future of students.
PM stresses restoring confidence among students
The Prime Minister is said to have asked NDA lawmakers to reach out to students and reassure them that the government is taking concrete steps to strengthen the examination system.
He reportedly noted that re-examinations had been conducted smoothly wherever required and urged party leaders to counter what he described as attempts by the Opposition to create fear and misinformation among young people.
According to those present at the meeting, Modi said students should be made aware that legal action against those involved in paper leak cases is progressing and that accountability remains a priority.
Remarks come after nationwide protests
The Prime Minister’s comments follow large-scale demonstrations in the national capital demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities. Student groups and Opposition parties have intensified protests, calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and wider reforms in the examination system.
The protests also sparked political confrontations inside and outside Parliament, with Opposition leaders demanding a dedicated discussion on the issue during the ongoing Monsoon Session.
Paper leak networks must face strict punishment
Sources said Modi highlighted that examination paper leak cases have affected multiple states over the years and cannot be viewed as isolated incidents.
He reportedly said the government acted swiftly after reports of the latest paper leak surfaced and insisted that those arrested should receive the strongest punishment permissible under the law to deter future offences.
Youth driving India’s growth: PM
During the meeting, the Prime Minister also highlighted the achievements of young Indians in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, information technology and space technology.
Referring to India’s growing innovation ecosystem, he cited the success of private space company Skyroot Aerospace as an example of the country’s young talent making significant contributions. He encouraged MPs to promote such success stories while engaging with students and first-time voters.
Rijiju outlines PM’s message
After the meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju told reporters that the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting students’ interests and ensuring accountability in paper leak cases.
Rijiju said Modi informed NDA MPs that immediate action had been taken after reports of examination irregularities emerged, leading to multiple arrests. He added that the Prime Minister also emphasised timely conduct of re-examinations to minimise disruption to students’ academic careers.
The minister further said the Prime Minister discussed India’s recent economic and diplomatic achievements, including free trade agreements, while assuring MPs that the interests of farmers and students would remain central to government policies.
