Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Murli Manohar Joshi has broken ranks with his party to support students protesting the alleged leak of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper. Joshi criticised the police action against demonstrators, calling it merciless, and urged authorities to handle the situation with empathy.
The NEET exam, which is used for admissions to medical colleges across India, has been marred by allegations of a paper leak. Students have been protesting in several cities, demanding a fair investigation. The central government has stated it is ready for a debate on the examination system. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the setting up of fast-track courts to deal with paper leak offenders.
Opposition parties have seized on the issue, demanding the resignation of the Education Minister and calling for a parliamentary discussion. The government has not yet responded to those demands. Joshi's comments are notable as they come from a senior figure within the ruling party, highlighting internal differences over the handling of the protests.
The controversy continues to unfold, with students and political parties awaiting further action from the government.