Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has once again taken a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the alleged NEET paper leak, questioning why Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has not been sacked yet. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Gandhi said the government's silence on the issue was 'deafening' and demanded a thorough investigation into the matter.
Gandhi's Fresh Attack on PM Modi
Rahul Gandhi, while addressing a press conference, reiterated his demand for the removal of Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him accountable for the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. 'Why aren't you sacking Dharmendra Pradhan? The NEET paper leak is a serious issue that has affected thousands of students. The Prime Minister must answer why his minister is still in the cabinet,' Gandhi said.
The Congress leader also accused the Modi government of protecting corrupt officials and failing to ensure transparency in the education sector. He demanded a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the NEET paper leak and other examination irregularities.
Background of the NEET Paper Leak Controversy
The NEET paper leak allegations surfaced earlier this year, with reports suggesting that the question paper for the medical entrance exam was leaked in several states. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been probing the case, and several arrests have been made. However, opposition parties, including the Congress, have been demanding a high-level inquiry and the resignation of the education minister.
Dharmendra Pradhan has dismissed the allegations, stating that the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure the integrity of examinations. He has also accused the opposition of politicizing the issue.
Political Reactions
The controversy has sparked a political slugfest between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition. While the Congress has been targeting the government, the BJP has hit back, accusing Rahul Gandhi of deflecting attention from other issues. Union Minister Smriti Irani said, 'Rahul Gandhi should first explain the corruption in his own party before pointing fingers at others.'
Meanwhile, student organizations have staged protests in several cities, demanding justice and a fair investigation. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the NEET exam, has denied any large-scale leak but has admitted to isolated incidents of malpractice.
What Lies Ahead?
With the NEET paper leak issue gaining momentum, the opposition is likely to continue its attack on the government in the upcoming Parliament session. Rahul Gandhi has indicated that he will raise the matter in the Lok Sabha and demand a discussion under a rule that entails a vote. The government, on its part, is expected to present its side of the story and defend its handling of the situation.
As the political battle intensifies, students and parents await concrete action to prevent such incidents in the future. The demand for a robust examination system and strict penalties for those involved in malpractices is growing louder.
