NEW DELHI — Protests intensified across India on Thursday over the alleged leak of the 2026 National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) question paper, as demonstrators demanded accountability from the government and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, while Parliament remained disrupted for a fourth consecutive day over the controversy.
Thousands of students, youth groups and supporters gathered in the national capital and several other cities, with demonstrations centered on concerns about the integrity of India's examination system. Police deployed additional personnel in parts of New Delhi after clashes earlier this week, while security measures around Parliament and key government areas remained heightened.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced the creation of fast-track courts to expedite cases involving examination paper leaks, describing the issue as one affecting the future of young people and pledging swift punishment for those responsible. The announcement marked his first public response to the controversy after days of mounting protests.
Despite the announcement, protest organizers and opposition parties said the measures did not address their principal demand that Pradhan resign over the handling of the alleged leak. They also called for broader reforms to strengthen transparency and security in competitive examinations.
Inside Parliament, opposition lawmakers continued to press for an immediate discussion on the issue while insisting that ministerial accountability should be addressed. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the government was prepared to debate the NEET controversy under any rule and for any duration agreed with the opposition, urging members to allow normal legislative business to resume.
The Delhi High Court has sought responses from the central government and Delhi Police over petitions alleging excessive use of force against student protesters, directing authorities to preserve relevant records, including CCTV footage and video evidence, according to court proceedings reported by Indian media.
The NEET controversy has evolved from allegations surrounding the examination into a broader debate over public-sector recruitment, examination security and youth employment, drawing support from student organizations, civil society activists and opposition parties. Government officials have said investigations into the alleged paper leak are continuing and that those found responsible will face legal action.
As of Thursday evening, protests continued in parts of the country while talks between the government and protest representatives had yet to produce an agreement. Parliament's proceedings remained affected by the standoff, with the government reiterating its willingness to hold a formal debate on the issue.
