Protest Erupts in Mangaluru Over NEET Fiasco and Police Action
Students affiliated with the Students' Federation of India (SFI) and the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), along with other student groups, staged a protest in Mangaluru on July 24, 2026. The demonstration condemned the alleged police excesses against students and the recent NEET paper leak that has sparked nationwide outrage.
Protesters gathered at a prominent location in the city, holding placards and chanting slogans demanding justice. The NEET paper leak, which has been described as a major breach of examination integrity, has affected thousands of aspiring medical students across the country.
Leader Accuses BJP of Silence
Speaking at the protest, leader Santosh Bajal leveled serious allegations against the ruling party. According to Bajal, "BJP legislators and leaders from the district have remained silent on both the NEET paper leak controversy and the alleged police action against students." He criticized the local political leadership for failing to address the grievances of the student community.
Bajal further stated that the silence of the BJP leaders amounts to complicity, urging them to break their silence and take a stand. The protest was part of a broader movement seeking accountability from the authorities regarding the examination irregularities and the treatment of student demonstrators.
Background of the Controversy
The NEET UG 2026 examination, held earlier this year, was marred by allegations of a paper leak that reportedly compromised the fairness of the test. Multiple investigations have been launched, but students and opposition parties have demanded swift action against those responsible.
In addition to the paper leak, incidents of police action against student protesters in various parts of the country have drawn criticism from human rights groups. The protest in Mangaluru highlighted these dual issues, with participants calling for an end to what they termed "police brutality" against peaceful student demonstrations.
Political Reactions and Demands
The SFI and DYFI have been at the forefront of the protests, organizing rallies and submitting memorandums to district authorities. Their demands include a thorough investigation into the NEET paper leak, punishment of the culprits, and a review of police conduct during previous student protests.
Local Congress leaders expressed solidarity with the protesters, accusing the state government of mishandling the situation. The ruling BJP, however, has maintained that the matter is being investigated and that the police acted within their rights to maintain law and order.
The protest in Mangaluru is expected to be followed by similar demonstrations in other parts of Karnataka and across the country as the NEET controversy continues to unfold.
