Protests Erupt Over Alleged NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak

Protests in Odisha demand a fair investigation into the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and call for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Accusations of 'anti-student' policies have sparked demonstrations, urging reforms in the examination system to restore trust among students and parents.

In the wake of the NEET-UG 2026 question paper leak, youth and student wings of the opposition BJD staged widespread protests in Odisha on Wednesday. Hundreds took to the streets in cities such as Bhubaneswar, Berhampur, and Baripada, displaying placards and chanting slogans against the alleged leak and the subsequent cancellation of the examination.

The demonstrators accused the central government of implementing 'anti-student' policies that have put students' futures at risk. Leading the charge in Bhubaneswar, Biju Yuva Janata Dal state president Chinmay Sahu demanded an impartial investigation into the incident and called for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Simultaneously, the opposition Congress also condemned Pradhan's role in the debacle, with Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee member Arvind Das highlighting the negative impact on Odisha's national reputation. The National Testing Agency canceled the May 3 exam and the government has enlisted the CBI for a comprehensive probe into irregularities.