A political controversy has erupted after Rajasthan School Education Minister Madan Dilawar described the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 examination as “not a big deal” amid allegations of a nationwide paper leak scam.
Speaking to reporters in Jodhpur, Dilawar said the National Testing Agency (NTA) must have found irregularities in the medical entrance examination and therefore decided to cancel it.
“The investigating agencies must have found irregularities, so cancelling it is not a big issue. Wherever wrongdoing is found, the government will work to fix it,” Dilawar said.
His remarks have triggered criticism from opposition parties and students, many of whom are angry and frustrated after the cancellation of one of India’s biggest entrance exams. More than 22 lakh students appeared for NEET-UG 2026, which was conducted on May 3.
Minister Says Guilty Will Not Be Spared
While defending the government’s response, Dilawar said strict action would be taken against all those involved in the alleged paper leak racket, regardless of their location or influence.
“Whether the connection is with Sikar, West Bengal or Kashmir, the guilty won’t be spared anywhere,” he said.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently probing the alleged leak, which investigators believe involved a network operating across several states including Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Haryana.
According to preliminary findings, leaked question papers were allegedly circulated in PDF format after being handwritten and scanned. Reports suggest candidates were charged between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 25 lakh for access to the paper before the exam.
Congress Targets BJP Over Alleged Links
The issue has also taken a political turn after photographs surfaced showing some of the accused with BJP leaders, including Minister Dilawar. The Congress accused the Rajasthan government of delaying action because of alleged political connections.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot questioned the ruling BJP over the matter, while the opposition demanded accountability from the state government.
However, Rajasthan BJP president Madan Rathore denied that the accused had any connection with the party.
“Congress is making baseless allegations. If someone takes a photograph with a public figure, it does not mean they are linked to the party,” Rathore said.
He added that the BJP follows a “zero-tolerance” policy against corruption and paper leaks.
“The CBI is investigating the case, and no one will be protected. No matter how influential a person is, strict action will be taken,” he said.
Students Express Anger and Anxiety
The cancellation of the examination has left lakhs of medical aspirants uncertain about their future. Many students spent years preparing for the highly competitive exam and are now waiting for clarity on the re-examination process.
Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions from students expressing stress, disappointment and anger over the situation. Several student groups have demanded transparency in the investigation and quick announcement of fresh examination dates.
