Controversy Erupts Over Exam Paper Leaks in Punjab Amid National Debate

The Punjab government is currently under fire due to allegations of exam paper leaks linked to a recruitment exam for pharmacy officers. Opposition parties are demanding the resignation of key ministers and a thorough investigation into the matter. Amidst claims of collusion and organized crime, the Shiromani Akali Dal has appealed to the Governor for action. This controversy follows a recent national debate on similar issues, raising questions about the integrity of recruitment processes in the state. Stay informed about the unfolding situation and its implications for Punjab's political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2026, 19:08 IST

Punjab Government Faces Scrutiny Over Recruitment Exam Issues

As discussions about exam paper leaks intensify across the nation, the Punjab government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), finds itself embroiled in a significant controversy. This issue pertains to the recruitment examination conducted by Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, for 454 pharmacy officer positions. Opposition parties, including Congress, BJP, and Shiromani Akali Dal, have accused the state of experiencing six major incidents of paper leaks or irregularities in recruitment and board examinations since 2022.

Calls for Resignations Amidst Allegations

Following the NEET paper leak scandal that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan last week, these parties are now demanding the resignation of Punjab's School and Higher Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains. In contrast, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has asserted that no competitive exam paper has been leaked during his administration. The opposition has intensified its calls for Bains and other ministers to step down, particularly those responsible for overseeing the controversial exams. This demand was echoed by senior party leader and Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia, who stated at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi that any paper leak in Punjab would result in immediate dismissal of the minister involved.

Shiromani Akali Dal Appeals to Governor

On Friday, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) reached out to Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, informing him of ten instances of paper leaks and irregularities in government recruitment. The party expressed concerns that a perception has emerged suggesting collusion among senior officials of the AAP government in facilitating these leaks, indicating a possible organized criminal network involved in a 'jobs for money' racket.

Demand for CBI Investigation

The delegation urged a thorough CBI investigation into the roles of the Chief Minister, the council of ministers, AAP leaders, government employees, and private individuals in the exam scandal. They also called for a forensic examination of all digital records, CCTV footage, server communications, and documents related to the examinations. Additionally, they requested a comprehensive audit of all recruitment exams conducted by various state agencies over the past four and a half years.

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