NSUI stages protests across Karnataka against NEET cancellation, exam irregularities

Bengaluru,

The ruling Congress party's student wing NSUI on Wednesday staged protests in several parts of Karnataka, condemning the cancellation of the NEET examination following the alleged question paper leak. The protesters accused authorities of failing to safeguard the integrity of the national entrance test.

Demonstrations were held in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Chikkaballapura, Hubballi, Raichur and Bagalkote, with student activists raising slogans against the alleged examination fiasco and demanding strict action against those responsible for the leak. "If the authorities are unable to conduct even a single national-level eligibility examination properly, it raises serious questions about the credibility of the entire examination system," an NSUI leader said, describing the paper leak episode as deeply embarrassing for the country's education system.

NSUI leaders said large numbers of party workers participated in the protests, while some activists were detained during demonstrations in different districts. Protesters also criticised the Union Government over repeated controversies surrounding national examinations.

In Bengaluru, the members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) staged a demonstration outside the residence of Chikkaballapura BJP MP K Sudhakar, who was the former Karnataka Minister of Health and Medical Education during his party's government.

Student participants said the cancellation of the exam and proposed re-examination had triggered severe stress and uncertainty among aspirants who had spent months preparing for the test. They argued that students should not be punished for lapses allegedly committed by institutions or individuals involved in the leak. "One mistake by a few people has affected students across the country.

Aspirants have invested an entire year preparing for the exam, and now they are being forced to undergo the stress all over again," a protesting student said. Students expressed concern that a re-examination could alter their performance levels and affect their chances of securing medical seats. Several protesters said many aspirants had already gone through immense mental pressure during preparation and feared further emotional distress due to uncertainty over admissions.

Another student protester said many parents had pinned their hopes on their children becoming doctors after months of hard work and preparation. "A sudden re-exam creates anxiety and uncertainty for lakhs of families. The authorities must think about the impact this has on students' futures," the student said. The protesters demanded stringent punishment for those involved in the alleged paper leak and called for measures to ensure fairness and transparency in the conduct of competitive examinations.