Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das on Tuesday, 12 May strongly condemned the Union Government over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, calling it an "organised crime" within the education system and demanding immediate strict action against those responsible. Speaking at a press conference in Bhubaneswar, Das said the incident had shattered the aspirations of nearly 22 to 23 lakh students who appeared for the examination this year.

What Das Said

Invoking concerns previously raised by senior Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi, Das alleged that paper-leak rackets had been exploiting systemic corruption and government negligence while students spent sleepless nights preparing. "Children studied day and night with hopes for their future, but their aspirations were shattered due to the paper leak. This is not just negligence; it is an organised crime in the education sector," he said.

Das further alleged that corrupt elements involved in leaking examination papers had been earning "huge sums of money" and claimed that several paper-leak incidents had taken place across the country over the past decade. "This is a serious crime, and immediate action should be taken. The guilty must be given the strictest punishment," he added.

Impact on Students and the Exchequer

The OPCC chief warned that any re-examination would impose significant financial burden on the government, the public, and the country at large, while simultaneously creating prolonged uncertainty in the lives of millions of aspirants. He accused authorities of failing in their fundamental responsibilities and said those at the helm must take moral accountability for the lapse.

Demand for Education Minister's Resignation

Congress leaders at the press conference alleged that student organisations across the country have been protesting the paper leak and, in the process, directing criticism at Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan — a development the party described as a matter of shame for people from Odisha. The party formally demanded Pradhan's immediate resignation, stating it was necessary to protect Odisha's self-respect and ensure a fair and impartial investigation into the incident.

Broader Context

This comes amid a pattern of high-stakes examination controversies in India. The NEET-UG examination, which determines undergraduate medical admissions across the country, has faced repeated scrutiny over paper security in recent years. With 22 to 23 lakh candidates reportedly sitting the 2026 edition, the scale of potential disruption — and the political stakes — are considerable. The Congress's demands echo calls from student groups and opposition parties nationwide for systemic reform of examination administration.

As pressure mounts on the Union Government, all eyes will be on whether federal authorities announce a formal investigation, structural safeguards, or any decision regarding a re-examination in the days ahead.