Tripura Tourism and Transport Minister and senior BJP leader Sushanta Chowdhury on Thursday accused opposition parties, including the Congress, of politicising the NEET question paper leak issue to create unrest and harm the reputation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Speaking at a press conference held at the state BJP headquarters in Agartala, Chowdhury alleged that the opposition was misleading students and the public by spreading confusion over the issue for political advantage. He warned that any attempt to disturb peace and create instability in the country would be dealt with firmly by the government.
The minister claimed that examination-related irregularities had occurred during previous governments as well but were ignored by opposition leaders. Referring to the UPA-led Congress government, he alleged that several corruption cases and paper leak controversies had emerged during the tenure of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, yet many accused persons escaped punishment.
Chowdhury further alleged that certain groups, allegedly backed by foreign interests, were attempting to pressure the Central government and damage India’s image through negative campaigns, particularly targeting the ruling party.
He stated that the government was treating the NEET paper leak matter with utmost seriousness and was willing to discuss the issue in Parliament. However, he accused the opposition of making baseless allegations instead of participating in constructive debate.
Highlighting the government’s measures, Chowdhury said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the setting up of fast-track courts to ensure quick, strict and impartial action against those involved in examination paper leaks.
He added that the investigation into the NEET controversy would be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, and anyone found guilty would face strict legal action. The minister reiterated that no person or organisation responsible for affecting the future of students would be spared.