Congress Leader Criticizes BJP Over NEET Exam Irregularities and Tribal Displacement
Congress President's Strong Allegations Against BJP
On Wednesday, Jitu Patwari, the President of the Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee, launched a fierce critique of both the central and state BJP governments during a press conference. He raised serious concerns regarding alleged irregularities in the NEET (NEET-UG 2026) examination and the displacement of tribal communities due to the Ken-Betwa river linking project. Patwari characterized the NEET exam controversy not merely as an administrative error but as a threat to the future of the nation.
During his address to reporters, Patwari highlighted that the country is currently facing two significant crises: the 'NEET exam scam' and the exploitation of tribal people under the guise of the Ken-Betwa river linking project.
Impact of NEET Exam Controversy
He emphasized that these issues extend beyond political discourse, posing serious questions about the future of the country and its democratic framework. Patwari noted that approximately 24 lakh students participated in the NEET exam on May 3, but once again, allegations of paper leaks and fraud have shattered the dreams of students and their families.
The NEET-UG 2026 examination, which is crucial for admissions into undergraduate medical courses, was canceled on Tuesday amid accusations of paper leaks. The central government has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the 'irregularities' by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Allegations Against BJP Government
Patwari, a former minister, claimed that similar incidents have occurred in various examinations in the past. He accused the BJP government of consistently attempting to shift the blame for its failures onto officials.
He pointed out that whenever exam scams have surfaced, individuals associated with the BJP have been implicated. Patwari alleged that the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) are imposing their ideology on the education system and attempting to appoint 'their people' in various institutions.
He further claimed that BJP-ruled states have witnessed the highest number of paper leaks and recruitment scams, citing the Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh as an example of how the BJP administration has systematically ruined the future of the youth.
Concerns Over Ken-Betwa Project
Addressing the Ken-Betwa project, Patwari mentioned that he has been visiting affected areas for several days. He recounted his meetings with displaced families in Panna on May 11 and discussions with impacted individuals in Chhatarpur the following day.
Patwari stated that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has urged him to meet with tribal families affected by the Ken-Betwa project, asserting that Congress stands firmly with them in their struggle.
He alleged that thousands of tribal families are being displaced due to this project without receiving adequate compensation.
Compensation Issues for Displaced Families
Patwari claimed that the compensation amount determined years ago has become irrelevant, and family members who were minors at that time have been excluded from the rehabilitation and compensation process.
