Modi directs creation of 'flawless' examination system

Amid ongoing protests over question paper leaks in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed reforms in the government recruitment examination system. He emphasized the need to build a "flawless" and reliable examination system to safeguard the future of the youth.

Speaking at a meeting with lawmakers from the ruling coalition, Modi stated that everyone must unite to take strict measures to ensure that the future of the youth is not compromised under any circumstances on Tuesday (July 21).

Union Cabinet Minister and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju shared these details, quoting Modi's remarks. This marks the first time Modi has publicly addressed the issue since the leak of the national medical entrance exam paper surfaced last May.

Nationwide youth protests over the question paper leaks have turned into a major political challenge for the Modi government. On Monday (July 20), thousands of young people attempted to march toward the Parliament building in Delhi. Among the main demands of the protesters were punishment for those responsible for the paper leak and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Protesters alleged that more than two million students were affected by the question paper leak. They also claimed that several students committed suicide as a result of the incident.

News agency Reuters reported that clashes broke out between police and protesters in Delhi. Delhi Police claimed that around 180 people were injured in the clashes, including 118 security forces and police personnel, and 60 protesters. However, the protesters claimed that more than 150 demonstrators were receiving treatment in hospitals. Reuters could not independently verify these claims.

The demands of the protesters include the resignation of the Education Minister, compensation for the families of students who committed suicide over the paper leak, and major reforms in the examination system. As a result, the issue of question paper leaks has now become a significant political question regarding India's education system, the future of its youth, and government accountability.

Modi stated that the government took swift action upon receiving information about irregularities in the examination. He also informed that 13 individuals have been arrested and sent to jail in connection with the incident, adding that a re-examination was conducted and the results were published on schedule.