24 July,2026 01:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Dia Mirza and PM Modi (Pictures via Instagram)
Actor Dia Mirza has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address on the NEET paper leak controversy, saying his message failed to acknowledge the pain and trauma faced by lakhs of students and their families. The actor took to Instagram shortly after the Prime Minister's late-night video message, expressing disappointment over what she described as the absence of empathy in his remarks.
Reacting to the speech, Dia wrote that while the government spoke about reforms and action against those responsible for the paper leak, it overlooked the emotional distress experienced by students whose futures were thrown into uncertainty. She questioned why there was no direct acknowledgment of the hardships endured by aspirants and their parents.
Sharing her thoughts on Instagram Stories, Dia wrote, "Not one word of empathy for the students. Not one word of empathy for the parents. Not one word of apology." She further added that accountability must begin with compassion, especially when millions of young people have been affected by the examination crisis.
The actor also stressed that leadership is not only about announcing corrective measures but also about recognising the emotional impact of such incidents. According to her, students deserved reassurance that their concerns had been heard and that their struggles mattered.
Prime Minister Modi, in his address, described examination paper leaks as a serious crime and announced that the government would establish fast-track courts to ensure swift punishment for those involved. He assured students that strict measures would be implemented to make examinations more secure and prevent similar incidents in the future. He said paper leaks were a betrayal of the country's youth and promised that those responsible would not be spared.
Dia's remarks come amid growing support from several members of the film industry for students protesting against the NEET paper leak controversy. Celebrities have been voicing concern over the impact of repeated examination irregularities and the handling of the issue by authorities, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability.
The NEET paper leak has triggered widespread protests across the country, with students demanding justice, systemic reforms and accountability. While the Centre has announced legal and administrative measures to address the crisis, the debate over the government's response continues, with Dia Mirza's comments adding another prominent voice to the ongoing conversation
