Bengaluru: Karnataka School Education and Literacy Minister S. Madhu Bangarappa has strongly criticised the Centre over the cancellation of the NEET UG 2026 examination and the decision to conduct a re-exam following allegations of question paper leaks and irregularities.
Reacting to the Centre’s decision to order a CBI probe into the alleged malpractice, the minister expressed serious concern over repeated failures in the national examination system, stating that such incidents are severely affecting the mental health and future of students.
“A Crushing Blow to Lakhs of Students”
Madhu Bangarappa said the sudden announcement of a re-examination has come as a devastating shock to lakhs of students who had spent years preparing for the highly competitive medical entrance test.
“We are continuously working at the school level to reduce academic and mental stress among children. But irresponsible decisions like these by the Central government are pushing students and parents into frustration and despair,” he said.
Sharp Attack on Centre
Questioning the priorities of the Union government, the minister remarked that the Centre, which advises citizens to work from home and save fuel by using public transport, has failed to perform its own basic responsibilities properly.
“Before giving lifestyle lessons to citizens, the Central government should at least demonstrate the ability to conduct one NEET examination without question paper leaks,” he said.
Questions BJP’s Silence
The Karnataka minister also targeted BJP leaders in the state for remaining silent over the controversy.
“Local BJP leaders who routinely speak about national interest even on minor issues are now silent on this massive failure of the Centre. Despite repeated paper leak scandals, they have completely failed to exert pressure on the Union government,” he alleged.
He said the issue was not merely about an examination, but about the future of thousands of talented students in Karnataka and across the country.
Demand for Transparent Examination System
Madhu Bangarappa further stated that merely ordering a CBI investigation would not be sufficient.
He urged the Central government to establish a stronger, transparent and foolproof examination system to ensure such incidents do not recur in future.
“Otherwise, public confidence in the entire examination system will completely collapse,” the minister warned.
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