15 July,2026 12:01 PM IST | Mumbai | Anushree Gaikwad
Day 18 of Sonam Wangchuk`s hunger strike at New Delhi`s Jantar Mantar. Pic/ X
The controversy surrounding the alleged NEET UG 2026 paper leak has sparked concern among students across the country, with many demanding greater transparency and accountability in the examination process.
Amid the ongoing debate, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and calls for dialogue with the government have also drawn attention from students, including NEET aspirants in Mumbai.
Speaking to mid-day.com, several students shared their views on the paper leak controversy, tits impact on aspirants, and whether they support Wangchuk's protest.
Gayatri Gaikwad, a 16-year-old NEET aspirant studying at Swami Vivekanand College (Integrated), said she has been closely following developments related to both the paper leak controversy and Wangchuk's hunger strike.
"I've been following Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and the NEET UG paper leak controversy through news reports and social media. But as someone preparing for NEET, I've been paying more attention to the paper leak issue because it directly affects students like me. It honestly made me feel worried and frustrated," she said.
While clarifying that Wangchuk's protest is not directly linked to NEET, Gaikwad said she supports his right to raise concerns through peaceful means.
"Yes, I support Sonam Wangchuk's peaceful protest. I think everyone has the right to speak up for what they believe in, especially if they feel they are not being heard. Even though his protest isn't about NEET, I respect that he's trying to bring attention to important issues without using violence," she added.
Asked whether a hunger strike is an effective way to highlight concerns related to NEET aspirants, Gaikwad said students are looking for concrete action from authorities.
"A hunger strike can make people notice an issue, but I don't think it's the best way to solve NEET-related problems. What students really need is quick action from the authorities, strict punishment for those involved in paper leaks, and an examination system that is fair for everyone. After studying so hard, we just want equal opportunities. We just want a fair chance," she said.
Another Mumbai-based NEET aspirant, Anushka Kulkarni, a 16-year-old Class 11 student from Podar Brio International School, said she has been following Wangchuk's hunger strike since it began.
"I have been following Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike from the start," she told mid-day.com.
Kulkarni said she believes the concerns being raised deserve attention and discussion.
"Sonam Wangchuk's demands are valid, and as a NEET aspirant, I support what he is doing. These issues need to be heard. As a student in this country, I am concerned not only for myself but also for future generations. This support is for students who have faced disappointment because of flaws in the system," she said.
According to Kulkarni, peaceful protests remain an important democratic tool for drawing attention to public concerns.
"I feel this is one of the few peaceful ways left to bring attention to these issues. Even if it is not the perfect solution, it represents a united effort by young people seeking accountability and change. It is a non-violent protest asking the authorities to listen and respond," she added.
The alleged NEET UG paper leak controversy has reignited discussions around examination security, fairness and student welfare, with aspirants across the country continuing to call for greater transparency and stronger safeguards in the system.
