‘Don’t Create Fear Among Students’: Pradhan Hits Out at Rahul Gandhi Over NEET Remarks

Pradhan Accuses Rahul Gandhi Of ‘Misleading’ NEET Aspirants, Urges Opposition Not To Politicise Exam

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday criticised the Congress over the NEET-UG 2026 examination, accusing Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi of creating unnecessary fear among students and attempting to politicise issues related to their future.

In an interview with CNN-News18, Pradhan alleged that Gandhi’s remarks on NEET had caused anxiety among aspirants and their families at a crucial time. “Rahul Gandhi tried to create fear in the minds of the youth. He misled NEET aspirants. We all have a responsibility towards the new generation and should not create panic among them,” Pradhan said.

The minister also questioned the opposition’s decision to hold a political rally in Kota, a major hub for competitive exam preparation, shortly before the examination. “I do not want to indulge in politics when it concerns students, but organising a rally in Kota days before the exam was not appropriate,” he said.

Defends Security Measures During Exam

Responding to criticism over the deployment of security agencies during the examination process, Pradhan defended the government’s decision and said extraordinary measures were necessary to ensure a fair and secure examination.

“What is the problem if the Indian Air Force and CAPF were used for the youth of India?” he asked. The minister also referred to reports that some students allegedly faced difficulties reaching their examination centres because of a political rally addressed by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

Pradhan claimed that three students were unable to reach their centre on time due to the event and questioned the opposition’s criticism of the government’s handling of the examination.

Government Took Corrective Steps, Says Pradhan

The Union minister said the Centre had acknowledged shortcomings in the past and introduced multiple safeguards to strengthen the examination process. “We accepted that there were lapses and took corrective measures. A multilayered security system was implemented. Attempts were made to disrupt the process in Bihar, but those involved were arrested,” he said.

Pradhan reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling examination fraud and paper leak networks, adding that fast-track courts had been established to expedite trials in such cases. “We will take stricter action against the paper mafia. Those involved will not be spared,” he said.

‘NEET Re-Exam Conducted Successfully’

Describing the re-examination as a major logistical exercise, Pradhan said the process was completed smoothly with support from state governments and various agencies. “NEET was a significant challenge, but it was conducted successfully. States played an important role in ensuring the smooth conduct of the examination,” he said.

He also highlighted special arrangements made by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for differently-abled candidates and students facing logistical difficulties. Appealing to aspirants and parents to remain confident, Pradhan said the government was committed to safeguarding students’ interests.

“My message to students and their families is to stay positive and trust the country’s institutions. This government is sensitive towards the youth and will do everything possible to secure their future,” he said.

NEET-UG 2026 Re-Exam

The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination was conducted on Sunday from 2 pm to 5:15 pm in pen-and-paper mode after the May 3 examination was cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. According to the National Testing Agency, more than 20 lakh candidates appeared for the re-exam at 5,440 centres across India and 14 centres overseas.

The examination was conducted in 13 languages and featured enhanced security measures, including Aadhaar-based biometric verification, facial authentication, CCTV surveillance, jammers and two-layer frisking with support from state police forces.