NEET paper leak raised at NDA Mangal Milan; Modi calls it a national concern
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the NEET-UG paper leak crisis at the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) 'Mangal Milan' parliamentary meeting in New Delhi, calling it a matter of concern not limited to any single state or party but one that affects the entire nation. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju briefed reporters on the discussions, confirming that Modi stressed swift government action and demanded the strictest punishment for those responsible.
What Modi Said on NEET
According to Rijiju, Prime Minister Modi told NDA members that the government acted immediately upon receiving reports of the paper leak. Thirteen people were arrested and jailed, and a NEET re-examination was conducted on priority to protect students' futures, with results declared without delay.
Modi reportedly called on top lawyers to support efforts ensuring the harshest possible penalties for those involved in what he described as a 'heinous crime', so that strong deterrence could prevent such incidents going forward. '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,' Rijiju said.
New Rajya Sabha Members Welcomed
The Mangal Milan meeting also served as a formal welcome for newly elected Rajya Sabha members. Nitin Nabin, attending for the first time as a Rajya Sabha member and as President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was among those greeted. According to sources, six Rajya Sabha members who had earlier resigned from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and merged into the BJP were also welcomed at the event.
Youth, Achievements and Skyoot Aerospace
Modi used the platform to highlight India's youth achievements, praising Skyoot Aerospace for the successful launch of Vikram-1. Rijiju quoted the Prime Minister as saying, '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.'
Modi also noted India's recent Free Trade Agreements with several countries, describing them as being in favour of farmers and the nation at large.
NDA's Stance on the Monsoon Session
Rijiju confirmed that the NDA would 'play a positive role' during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament and remain united to ensure the passage of government bills and legislative business. He appealed to the Opposition to set aside political differences: '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.'
With the NEET controversy continuing to dominate political discourse, the government's handling of the crisis and the pace of legal proceedings against the accused will remain under close scrutiny in the weeks ahead.