BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra accused the Opposition of politicising the NEET issue, defended the Centre's response to the alleged examination irregularities, and urged political parties to raise the matter through parliamentary debate
Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra on Wednesday alleged that Opposition parties were politicising the NEET examination issue instead of participating in discussions in Parliament. He said the Central Government acted promptly by ordering a CBI probe, conducting a re-examination, and introducing reforms to strengthen the examination system while safeguarding students' interests.
Bengaluru: Karnataka BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra on Wednesday alleged that Opposition parties were politicising the NEET examination issue to gain political mileage instead of participating in constructive discussions in Parliament. He said the Central Government had acted promptly to address the alleged examination irregularities and had taken several measures to protect the interests of students.
Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Vijayendra said the government respected the democratic right of citizens to protest but alleged that the Opposition was attempting to create unrest by using the NEET issue as a political platform.
"The future of students remains the Central Government's foremost priority. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has immense faith in the talent and capabilities of India's youth," Vijayendra said.
Vijayendra Defends Centre's Response to NEET Issue
Vijayendra said complaints regarding alleged paper leaks and examination irregularities surfaced shortly after the nationwide NEET examination conducted on May 3.
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According to him, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan immediately ordered an inquiry into the allegations. He said that, considering the seriousness of the matter, the investigation was subsequently transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He stated that the CBI, along with the Special Investigation Team (SIT), initiated action by arresting 13 accused and proceeding with the investigation.
The BJP leader also said that the Centre did not obstruct the protests held at Jantar Mantar and respected citizens' democratic right to demonstrate peacefully.
Re-Examination Conducted to Protect Students
Highlighting the government's response, Vijayendra said conducting a nationwide examination like NEET normally requires several months of preparation.
However, he claimed that the Centre successfully organised the re-examination within 35 days to ensure students did not lose an academic year.
According to him, the results were declared within 25 days of the re-examination, with 58 per cent of candidates qualifying.
Vijayendra said the Centre acted swiftly to ensure transparency while protecting the academic future of students.
Government Introduced Reforms to Strengthen Examination System
Vijayendra said the Central Government has implemented multiple reforms to enhance the credibility and security of national entrance examinations.
According to him, the measures include the introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT), the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for examination monitoring, technology-driven surveillance systems, stricter security arrangements at examination centres, and enhanced transparency throughout the examination process.
He said these initiatives were aimed at preventing future examination malpractices and strengthening public confidence in the examination system.
Calls on Opposition to Participate in Parliament Debate
The Karnataka BJP chief said the Central Government had expressed its willingness to hold a detailed discussion on the NEET issue in both Houses of Parliament.
He alleged that despite this, Opposition parties continued to organise protests instead of participating in parliamentary debates.
Vijayendra also criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging that his protest outside the Prime Minister's residence was politically motivated.
"The government is ready for a comprehensive discussion in Parliament. The Opposition should participate in the debate instead of creating unrest on the streets," Vijayendra said.
Criticises Congress Over Previous Governance
Referring to the previous Congress government in Karnataka, Vijayendra alleged that unemployed youth protesting over vacant government posts had faced police action during the Siddaramaiah-led administration.
He also referred to the Chinnaswamy Stadium tragedy, alleging that no one had accepted responsibility for the incident.
These remarks were made by the BJP leader during the press conference. Congress has not issued a response to these specific allegations.
Highlights Expansion in Medical Education
Vijayendra said the NDA government has expanded medical education infrastructure over the past decade by increasing MBBS seats, postgraduate medical seats, and the number of medical colleges across the country.
He also stated that several new IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS have been established to improve access to higher education and healthcare education nationwide.
Condemns Violence During CJP Protest
Vijayendra condemned the violence reported during the July 20 protests in Delhi and alleged that more than 158 police personnel and media representatives were attacked during the clashes.
He further alleged that anti-social elements had infiltrated the demonstrations and attempted to exploit young protesters to create unrest.
Appealing to Opposition parties to engage constructively, Vijayendra urged them to participate in the ongoing Parliament session and contribute to discussions on issues concerning students instead of escalating political confrontation.
