A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced fast-track courts and a new law to punish those behind exam paper leaks, Union Minister and Uttar Pradesh BJP chief Pankaj Chaudhary met cleared NEET students and their parents in Lucknow. He assured them that the government’s priority was students and that decisions were being taken in their interest. Chaudhary stated that students do not belong to any political side and acknowledged paper leaks as a problem. He claimed dozens of papers were leaked under past governments but the current administration had taken steps to prevent leaks, with three secure exams held recently. Earlier, Chaudhary led a march in Lucknow protesting against opposition actions. Party sources indicated the meeting reflected unease within the BJP and state government over student protests and possible effects on the 2027 assembly elections. Insiders noted efforts to counter negative perceptions after videos of police action against protesters circulated widely. Leaders observed that such incidents affected families with students or job seekers. BJP sources linked youth distress over leaks in recruitment exams to the party’s reduced performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh. Some members reported public anger over delayed responses. Others suggested earlier ministerial accountability might have reduced opposition gains. Party leaders expressed hope that recent measures would improve perceptions but noted the government should have acted sooner.
