New Delhi, July 27 (IANS) Political leaders on Monday reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of a high-powered task force on examination reforms, chaired by Nandan Nilekani. The initiative comes in the wake of the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, which triggered nationwide protests and renewed concerns over the integrity of examinations.
Reacting to the development, Congress MP Pawan Khera took a swipe at the BJP, saying the ruling party continues to rely on Congress leaders and their legacy.
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Khera said, “These people can’t survive without Congress. Today, how many of their MPs originally came from the Congress? Without Congress, PM Modi cannot even take a breath. They start with Nehru and end with Nandan Nilekani.”
Congress MP Phulo Devi Netam welcomed the formation of the task force, saying reforms were necessary in light of repeated paper leak incidents.
“This should definitely happen. The way the paper leak issue surfaced repeatedly, students across the country protested, and they succeeded in getting their voices heard. We all want the education system to improve through this committee,” she said.
Samajwadi Party chief and Lok Sabha MP Akhilesh Yadav also supported the initiative but questioned the timing of the government’s decision.
“It is a good step. This task force includes many intellectuals who have served in important positions and contributed significantly to public life. But the question is, why is the government forming it today? Why was it not constituted in 2014? Had it been formed then, our country would have progressed much faster,” Yadav said.
Defending the Centre’s move, BJP Bihar President Sanjay Saraogi said the government was committed to protecting the future of students and ensuring that question paper leaks are eliminated.
“An expert task force has been constituted because the Government of India will not tolerate anyone playing with the future of students under any circumstances. The government is strengthening the security of question papers while also ensuring strict laws and speedy punishment for those involved in paper leaks. At the same time, the expert committee will recommend measures to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future,” he said.
BJP MP Naresh Bansal termed the formation of the task force a significant initiative.
“This is a very good step. I believe it will permanently address the problem of cheating and paper leaks because the task force brings together highly experienced experts from the fields of education and other sectors. It is a commendable initiative,” he said.
BJP MP Tarun Chugh also welcomed the move and criticised previous governments.
“Those who remained in power for six decades did nothing on this issue. Over the past two terms, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently worked to secure the future of children. The Prime Minister has made it clear that not a single person involved in paper leaks will be spared,” Chugh said.
–IANS
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