Chennai, July 23:
Former BJP leader K Annamalai on Wednesday criticised the BJP-led Union Government over its handling of the NEET issue, alleging lack of accountability despite repeated question paper leaks and questioning the delay in engaging with protesting students.
In a strongly worded statement, Annamalai, who now heads the “We the Leaders” movement, said the Centre had failed to act promptly even after the exam paper was allegedly leaked multiple times. He asked why meaningful dialogue with aggrieved students and stakeholders was initiated only after protests intensified into a major flashpoint.
He urged the government to explain what caused the delay and why proactive steps were not taken earlier to address concerns surrounding the integrity of the examination process.
“I urge the BJP-led Central Government to engage in meaningful dialogue, uphold transparency, and take swift, appropriate action to address the concerns at hand. The strength of any nation lies in the confidence its youth place in its institutions. If our students lose faith in the fairness and credibility of our education system, we are jeopardising the future of our nation,” he said.
Annamalai’s remarks come amid mounting criticism from various quarters over alleged irregularities in NEET and the growing unrest among aspirants. The controversy has reignited the debate over the conduct and credibility of national-level entrance examinations, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu where opposition to NEET has remained strong.