New Delhi: Amid growing nationwide outrage over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy and protests demanding accountability, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced the establishment of fast-track courts to ensure the speedy trial of those involved in examination paper leak cases. The move comes as demonstrations led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), supported by several Opposition parties, continue to intensify across the country.
In a post on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting students’ interests and ensuring strict punishment for those responsible for compromising the integrity of competitive examinations.
“Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth. We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. I have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard. This continues our series of steps for safeguarding the interests of students. Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared,” the Prime Minister said.
The announcement marks the Prime Minister’s first public statement since protests over the alleged NEET paper leaks gained momentum. The decision is expected to strengthen the legal framework for handling examination-related offences, which have repeatedly raised concerns over the credibility of recruitment and entrance examinations in the country.
The CJP has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, alleging that accountability must be fixed for the NEET paper leak controversy. The protests escalated significantly on July 20 when demonstrators attempted to march towards Parliament in Delhi, leading to clashes with security personnel and a tense law-and-order situation.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s announcement, the CJP maintained its demand for the Education Minister’s resignation, posting a brief message on social media stating, “Dharmendra Pradhan Must Resign.” The party’s founder, Abhijeet Dipke, also shared a meme targeting the Prime Minister’s statement on youth welfare, reiterating the Opposition’s criticism of the government’s handling of the issue.
The debate over examination paper leaks has intensified following a recent investigation that reviewed major paper leak cases across the country over the last two decades. The investigation found that while a large number of individuals had been arrested and charge-sheeted, convictions remained extremely rare, with only a handful of cases resulting in successful prosecution. Many investigations remain pending, highlighting the need for faster judicial processes and stronger institutional mechanisms.
The government’s decision to establish fast-track courts is aimed at addressing these concerns by ensuring that cases involving examination paper leaks are resolved more efficiently. The initiative is also intended to strengthen public confidence in India’s examination system and deter organised networks involved in such offences through quicker and more stringent legal action.
