Opposition leaders on Friday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's late-night video message on the NEET paper leak controversy, calling his response "hollow" and "desperate" while continuing to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The reactions came after the Prime Minister addressed students and parents through a rare selfie-style video posted on social media, assuring that the government would take steps to prevent examination irregularities and punish those responsible.

In the video message, PM Modi acknowledged the seriousness of the paper leak issue and said the government understood the concerns of students and their families. He announced that the Union Cabinet would discuss measures to address examination-related irregularities and consider a draft bill aimed at strengthening action against those involved in paper leaks. He also said the government would establish fast-track courts to ensure quicker trials and strict punishment for offenders.

The Prime Minister's intervention came amid growing protests over alleged irregularities linked to the NEET-UG examination process. Opposition parties have been targeting the government over the issue, alleging failures in conducting competitive examinations and demanding accountability. Several opposition leaders said that announcements of legal reforms would not address their concerns unless responsibility was fixed at the ministerial level.

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Opposition leaders argued that the Prime Minister's message did not directly address their demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. They maintained that the Education Minister should take responsibility for the controversy surrounding the examination system. Leaders from opposition parties reiterated that they would continue raising the issue in Parliament and outside until their concerns were addressed.

The controversy over NEET-UG has led to protests by students and political groups across the country. Allegations of question paper leaks, irregularities and concerns over the examination process have triggered demands for a transparent investigation and stronger safeguards. The government has maintained that action is being taken against those involved and that the integrity of competitive examinations remains a priority.

The Opposition's criticism came shortly after the Prime Minister's announcement of proposed measures to deal with examination fraud. While the government has argued that stronger laws and faster legal proceedings will deter future violations, opposition parties have questioned whether these steps are sufficient without accountability from those responsible for the current crisis. The issue is expected to remain a major point of discussion in Parliament, where the Opposition has been demanding a detailed debate on the NEET controversy.

The government has said it is ready to discuss the matter and explain the steps being taken, but both sides remain divided over the conditions for such a discussion. As protests continue, the government faces pressure to restore confidence among students and parents affected by examination concerns. The proposed legislation on paper leaks and the Cabinet's upcoming discussions will be closely watched, while opposition parties are expected to maintain pressure over their demand for accountability and reforms in India's examination system.

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