Modi promises fast-track courts for exam paper leaks; opposition demands minister's resignation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the creation of fast-track courts to handle cases of examination paper leaks, as student protests over the issue continue to spread across several states. The announcement came during a parliamentary address on Thursday, as the government faced mounting pressure to address what many are calling a crisis of credibility in India's competitive examination system.

The Prime Minister's statement was brief but direct. "We will set up fast-track courts for paper leak cases," Modi said, adding that the government would not tolerate any act that jeopardises the future of the nation's youth. The pledge is seen as an attempt to stem growing anger among students who have been demonstrating for weeks over irregularities in entrance exams, including the NEET medical entrance test.

Parliament paralysed over demand for minister's scalp

The government's promise has done little to cool tempers in Parliament. The Monsoon Session remained deadlocked for the fourth consecutive day as opposition MPs moved adjournment motions, insisting on a discussion on the NEET paper leak only after the Education Minister's resignation.

"No discussion without the Education Minister's resignation," opposition leaders said in a unified stance, accusing the minister of failing to safeguard the integrity of the examination process. The ruling party has so far refused to yield, arguing that the minister should not be held personally responsible for isolated incidents of malpractice.

Student protests spread across states

Outside Parliament, the anger is palpable. Student groups have organised protests in Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, demanding not just the minister's resignation but also a complete overhaul of the examination system. Many students who spent months preparing for these exams say they feel cheated by the leaks.

"Our hard work means nothing if the system can be so easily compromised," said a protester in Delhi, echoing a sentiment widely shared on social media. The protests have remained largely peaceful, though authorities remain on alert for any escalation.

The government has defended its record, pointing to recent arrests by investigative agencies. Officials have not yet confirmed the total number of cases registered or the exact scale of the leak, but sources indicate that multiple networks of touts and middlemen have been busted in recent weeks.

Political blame game intensifies

The issue has quickly become a political football. The Congress party and other opposition groups have accused the Modi government of a systemic failure in managing the country's high-stakes entrance exams. They argue that the Education Minister's continued presence in the cabinet is an insult to the millions of students affected.

In a pointed remark, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor quoted Urdu poet Munir Niazi to target the Prime Minister's delayed response, saying, "Hamesha der kar deta hoon..." — a reference to what the opposition sees as a pattern of reactive governance. The ruling party has hit back, calling the opposition's demand a political stunt aimed at disrupting Parliament.

What happens next

The government is expected to introduce a bill in Parliament to formalise the fast-track court mechanism. However, with the opposition refusing to allow normal business until the Education Minister steps aside, the logjam shows no sign of breaking. Students and their families will be watching closely to see whether the courts can deliver the swift justice the Prime Minister has promised.