Bhubaneswar: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Congress party have strongly criticised the National Testing Agency (NTA) for cancelling the NEET-UG examination over an alleged paper leak. Both parties claimed that repeated irregularities in national-level exams are destroying students' futures and causing severe mental stress among aspirants.
BJD Chief Naveen Patnaik's Statement
BJD chief Naveen Patnaik expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, "The leaks deepen cynicism, heighten anxiety, and jeopardise the careers of hardworking students who expect fairness. As a nation, we cannot gamble with the destiny of our youth and the future of India." He emphasised that the government must take immediate steps to restore trust in the examination system.
Congress President Bhakta Charan Das Reacts
State Congress president Bhakta Charan Das said the incident reflects the failure of the education system and amounts to a grave injustice to students. He demanded a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible for the leak.
BJP Defends Cancellation
Defending the cancellation of the exam, Odisha BJP vice-president Golak Mohapatra said the decision was intended to ensure that students resorting to unfair means do not benefit. "The alleged paper leak will be thoroughly investigated, and corrective measures will be taken by the government," Mohapatra said. He added that the NTA's action was in the interest of maintaining the integrity of the examination process.
