Congress Launches Nationwide 40-Day Campaign Against Exam Paper Leaks

Bengaluru, June 25: Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad announced a nationwide 40-day campaign on Thursday to address alleged exam paper leaks and irregularities in the education system. She accused the NDA government of failing to protect student interests.

Speaking at a press conference at the Agricultural Technology Institute on Queens Road, Gaikwad stated that the campaign will run from June 25 to August 9 across 28 states and major cities. This initiative follows recent outreach efforts by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, focusing on educational issues and concerns related to NEET and other competitive exams.

Gaikwad emphasized that the campaign is not limited to isolated incidents of paper leaks but reflects a deeper crisis within India’s education and examination system.

She asserted that students are not failing; rather, it is the Ministry of Education and the NDA government that are failing them. Their shortcomings have led millions of students to face significant challenges.

The Congress leader alleged that repeated paper leaks, examination irregularities, and corruption have eroded students’ trust in the education system. As part of the campaign, Congress workers, Youth Congress, and NSUI members will engage with students, distribute pamphlets, and gather feedback on issues affecting the education sector.

She stated that Congress will raise students’ concerns with the Union Ministry of Education and the Prime Minister, advocating for reforms in the examination system.

Gaikwad announced that a student rally will take place on August 1, followed by a ‘Chalo Delhi’ march and a major protest in the national capital on August 9. She assured that students’ voices would reach Parliament in the upcoming session.

The Congress MP outlined three key demands: the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, action against officials allegedly responsible for examination irregularities, and comprehensive reforms in the examination system, covering everything from paper preparation and printing to transportation and conduct.

Citing reports of paper leaks, Gaikwad claimed that nearly 89 exams have been affected by leaks over the past decade, resulting in multiple exams being rescheduled or canceled. She also alleged that various recruitment exams have been canceled due to irregularities in several states.

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