New Delhi, July 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described examination paper leaks as a national concern rather than an issue confined to any one state or the Central Government, stating that prompt action by the government has led to the arrest of 13 individuals in connection with the case while calling for the strictest punishment against those responsible.
The remarks were shared by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju after the NDA’s ‘Mangal Milan’ programme, where the Prime Minister discussed issues concerning students, examination integrity and the future of the country’s youth.
According to Rijiju, the Prime Minister said the government acted immediately after reports of the NEET paper leak surfaced. He stated that 13 accused were arrested and sent to jail, while priority was given to conducting the NEET re-examination to ensure that students’ academic future was not adversely affected. He added that the re-examination was completed without delaying the declaration of results.
Rijiju said the Prime Minister appealed to members of the legal fraternity to support efforts to ensure that those involved in paper leak cases receive the strictest possible punishment. He stated that strong legal action would act as a deterrent against similar offences in the future.
The Prime Minister, according to Rijiju, stressed that paper leaks should not become a matter of political disagreement, describing the issue as one affecting the future of the country’s youth. He said all states and political parties should work together to address the problem, as it extends beyond individual governments and concerns the nation as a whole.
Rijiju further said the Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to preventing future paper leak incidents while ensuring that young people receive opportunities to emerge as global leaders.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister also highlighted the achievements of India’s youth in different sectors. Rijiju said Modi referred to the successful launch of Vikram-1 by Skyroot Aerospace as an example of the capabilities of young Indians and emphasised that the government’s time, energy and focus should remain dedicated to the country’s youth and their future.
The Union Minister said the Prime Minister also reviewed several recent national achievements, including the signing of Free Trade Agreements with multiple countries, which he described as being in the interest of farmers and the nation.
Rijiju added that the National Democratic Alliance would play a constructive role during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament and remain united to ensure the passage of government legislative business. He also appealed to Opposition parties to cooperate for the smooth functioning of Parliament, stating that elected representatives should work collectively in the interest of the country, its future and its youth.
