Mumbai Model Reacts To PM Modi’s NEET Assurance After Viral Police Van Protest

Model and actor Rhiya Ahir, who gained attention during student protests in Mumbai over alleged examination paper leaks, on Friday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance of strict action against those involved in irregularities but said that concrete steps were needed beyond announcements. Ahir said that while hearing the concerns of students was a positive development, the focus should now be on ensuring that promised action is actually implemented. Ahir became a prominent face of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests in Mumbai after a video showing her standing in front of a Mumbai Police van during a demonstration at Shivaji Park went viral on social media.

The 27-year-old model’s actions drew widespread attention as students and activists raised concerns over alleged leaks and demanded accountability in the examination system. Reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message on the issue, Ahir said that acknowledging students’ concerns was an important first step but stressed that implementation would determine the outcome. “Absolutely, those were the demands of the students. So, the demands are being heard; that's beautiful. If, after being heard, they are actually implemented, and it is coming into fruition, to say is one thing, but for it to actually happen is another,” she told ANI.

The Prime Minister had recently assured students and parents that the government recognised the seriousness of the paper leak controversy and would take stringent action against those responsible. He also announced measures aimed at strengthening the examination system, including legal provisions and fast-track courts to deal with cases related to examination fraud. Ahir, however, expressed concerns over previous cases where alleged accused individuals were released or cleared of charges. Referring to an earlier paper leak case, she said, “The alleged mastermind in the 2024 leaks was released on bail, and he has been cleared of all allegations. So, I hope it doesn't happen this time.”

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The actor said students were looking for accountability and long-term reforms rather than temporary assurances. She emphasised that action against those responsible would be necessary to rebuild confidence among candidates preparing for competitive examinations. The controversy over alleged paper leaks has triggered protests in several parts of the country, with students and opposition parties demanding greater transparency and accountability in the examination process. The issue has also led to political confrontation, with Opposition leaders demanding answers from the government and calling for action against those responsible.

The Centre has maintained that it is committed to protecting the interests of students and has announced steps to prevent future irregularities. However, protesters like Ahir have said that the effectiveness of these measures will depend on their implementation and whether those responsible face appropriate consequences. As discussions continue over examination reforms and accountability, student activists have maintained that they will continue monitoring the government’s actions. For many protesters, including Ahir, the next phase will depend on whether official assurances translate into visible changes on the ground.

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