Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde commended the Central government’s recent actions aimed at enhancing the transparency, fairness, and reliability of the examination system. He specifically lauded the establishment of fast-track courts, the proposal for up to 10 years of imprisonment, and a Rs 10 crore fine to deter paper leaks, addressing concerns raised by the NEET paper leak controversy. Shinde expressed full support from the state for these initiatives, emphasizing the government’s commitment to prioritizing students’ welfare and future under the NDA administration.
The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the ongoing efforts of the government to engage in constructive dialogues with students protesting nationwide, including at Jantar Mantar. He also mentioned the visits of Union Ministers J. P. Nadda and Jitendra Singh to discuss with social activist Sonam Wangchuk during his hunger strike, leading to Wangchuk’s decision to end the fast. Shinde underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolute stance in eradicating paper leak incidents and taking strict measures against those jeopardizing students’ futures.
Shinde revealed that a bill proposing harsh penalties of up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 10 crore for offenders will soon be presented in Parliament. In a social media post, he expressed the Maharashtra government’s wholehearted approval of this significant move, reaffirming the state’s unwavering commitment to collaborating closely with the Central Government to protect students’ rights and futures, and to ensure a robust examination system in Maharashtra.
