21 July,2026 12:54 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Pic/PTI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described the issue of examination paper leaks as a matter of national concern during the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) Mangal Milan programme, stressing that it should not be viewed through a political lens. He said those responsible for such crimes should face the strictest punishment and called for a united effort by all states and political parties to tackle the problem.
The remarks were shared by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju after the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting, where the Prime Minister also highlighted the achievements of India's youth and outlined the government's priorities for the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Briefing reporters after the meeting, Rijiju said the Prime Minister addressed NDA MPs and welcomed newly elected Rajya Sabha members to the Parliamentary Party.
"Today, the NDA Parliamentary Party held its Mangal Milan meeting. Everyone attended, and the Prime Minister guided and addressed all the members. First of all, during Mangal Milan, we welcomed the newly elected Rajya Sabha members and wished them success in their parliamentary responsibilities. Respected Nitin Nabin also attended the meeting for the first time as a Rajya Sabha member and the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party," Rijiju said.
According to reports, six Rajya Sabha members who had earlier resigned from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and later joined the BJP were also welcomed during the programme.
Speaking about the discussion on the NEET examination controversy, Rijiju said the Prime Minister emphasised that examination paper leaks are a nationwide issue affecting the future of students and should not become a subject of political confrontation.
"The Prime Minister remarked that the issue of paper leaks is not confined to any single state or the central government but is a matter of concern for the entire nation. All states and political parties must unite to take action against this crime. This is not a matter of partisan politics, but an issue concerning the future of the country and its youth," he said.
According to Rijiju, the Prime Minister reiterated that protecting the interests of students remains a priority and assured that measures would continue to strengthen the examination system and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Rijiju said the Prime Minister noted that the government acted immediately after reports of the NEET-UG paper leak surfaced.
"Thirteen people were arrested and sent to jail. At the same time, to ensure that the future of students was not affected, conducting the NEET re-examination was given top priority, and it was successfully held without any delay in the declaration of results. Those involved in the paper leak racket, who have been identified and arrested, have been sent to jail. Prime Minister ji also appealed that top lawyers should support efforts to ensure the strictest possible punishment for those involved in heinous crimes like paper leaks, so that strong deterrent measures can prevent such incidents in the future," Rijiju said.
He added that the Prime Minister assured young people that the government remained committed to safeguarding the integrity of competitive examinations while creating opportunities for India's youth to emerge as global leaders.
According to Rijiju, the Prime Minister also highlighted the accomplishments of young Indians across different sectors and urged party members to focus their efforts on supporting the country's youth.
He said Modi praised Skyroot Aerospace for the successful launch of the Vikram-1 mission.
"The youth of India are making tremendous success in different fields. So we will devote our time and energy and focus on the youth and their future," Rijiju said.
The Prime Minister also reviewed several achievements of the government over recent months, including the signing of Free Trade Agreements with multiple countries, which Rijiju said the Prime Minister described as being beneficial for farmers and the country.
Rijiju said the Prime Minister discussed the government's legislative agenda for the ongoing Monsoon Session and stressed the importance of ensuring that Parliament functions effectively.
He said the NDA would remain united to facilitate the passage of government legislation and contribute positively during the session.
Appealing to Opposition parties for cooperation, Rijiju said, "We may have differences as political parties, but Parliament is meant to work for the country, for its future, and for the youth. We have all been elected as Members of Parliament for this purpose, and everyone should work together to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament."
He added that the Prime Minister urged all Members of Parliament to place national interest above political differences while conducting parliamentary business during the Monsoon Session.
(With inputs from IANS)
