New Delhi: Amid continuing protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that the Centre is preparing stricter legal measures to tackle paper leak cases, including the establishment of Fast-Track Courts and provisions for stringent punishment for those involved in such crimes.
In a self-recorded video message shared on X on Thursday, the Prime Minister acknowledged the distress caused to students and their families, stating that paper leaks are a serious issue that cannot be treated lightly. He said the government recognises the emotional and academic impact such incidents have on lakhs of aspirants and assured that decisive action is being taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
PM Modi said that the government had acted swiftly following the paper leak incidents, leading to the arrest of the accused, who are currently in jail. He added that the Centre’s immediate priority was to ensure that students did not lose an academic year. According to him, examinations for nearly 22 lakh candidates were conducted in the shortest possible time, and the results were declared on July 19, allowing successful students to continue with their academic plans.
The Prime Minister further revealed that he had directed officials to prepare a draft Bill proposing Fast-Track Courts and tougher penalties for those involved in examination malpractices. The draft is expected to be discussed by the Union Cabinet before being finalised and introduced in Parliament during the second week of the ongoing Monsoon Session.
Separately, PM Modi also appealed to activist Sonam Wangchuk to follow medical advice and regain his health after he ended his 26-day hunger strike. Wangchuk called off the fast following discussions with the Centre and cited concerns over the possibility of violence. However, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been leading the protests at Jantar Mantar, said its agitation would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
