NEW DELHI—Thousands of students and supporters continued protests across India on Wednesday over examination paper leaks that forced the cancellation of the 2026 National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), intensifying pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government to reform the country's examination system and ensure accountability.
The demonstrations, centered at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest site, have drawn students from multiple states who say repeated examination irregularities have undermined confidence in one of India's most competitive entrance tests for medical colleges. Protesters have demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, stronger safeguards against paper leaks and compensation for families of students affected by the crisis.
The controversy began after authorities cancelled the NEET examination following allegations that question papers had been leaked before the test. The cancellation affected around two million candidates, prompting a fresh examination and sparking weeks of demonstrations, according to official announcements and media reports. Investigations into the alleged leak remain ongoing.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the government would not spare those responsible for examination paper leaks and pledged to make the testing system "foolproof." He urged that the issue not be politicized while reaffirming the administration's commitment to protecting the integrity of public examinations.
The protests have also spilled into Parliament, where opposition lawmakers disrupted proceedings while demanding a discussion on examination irregularities and police action against student demonstrators. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav accused the government of failing to adequately address students' concerns, while Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government was prepared to discuss the issue if parliamentary business proceeded without disruptions.
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has accused opposition parties of attempting to exploit the protests for political gain, describing their demonstrations as politically motivated. Opposition parties have rejected that characterization and said they were supporting students seeking accountability and reforms.
The youth-led movement has grown into one of the most significant public challenges facing the Modi government during its third term, reflecting broader concerns over educational opportunities, examination integrity and youth employment. Officials have said reforms are being prepared while investigations into the alleged examination leak continue. Protesters have indicated they will maintain pressure until further action is announced.
