NEW DELHI, July 21:
The nationwide movement over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak has intensified following the forcible removal and hospitalization of activist Sonam Wangchuk from his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. What began as a protest over examination irregularities has evolved into a wider youth movement demanding accountability, examination reforms, and political responsibility.
On July 20, thousands of students attempted a "Sansad Chalo" march towards Parliament. Delhi Police stopped the procession using barricades, lathi-charge, and tear gas, resulting in violent clashes. According to reports, nearly 180 people, including protesters and police personnel, were injured, with several suffering serious injuries and undergoing treatment. As of the time of filing this report, no deaths during the protest have been officially confirmed, while authorities continue to assess the full extent of the casualties.
The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a transparent investigation into the alleged paper leak, accountability from the National Testing Agency (NTA), compensation for affected students and their families, and comprehensive reforms to India's examination system. Some protest groups have also expanded their demands to include the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The police action has drawn criticism from several opposition leaders and Members of Parliament, who condemned the use of tear gas and force against the demonstrators. Parliament has witnessed repeated disruptions over the issue, with opposition parties raising concerns over both the alleged examination irregularities and the handling of the protests.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described examination paper leaks as a "grave sin" and assured strict action against those responsible while promising a stronger and more secure examination system.
Across social media, several claims about the crackdown have gone viral. These include allegations that some plain clothed individuals assaulted protesters, that several BJP workers resigned in protest, and calls to observe July 20 as a "Black Day" for Indian democracy. Social media users have also claimed that equipment beyond standard crowd-control gear including alleged 12-bore shotgun cartridges and expired tear gas shells was used or recovered during the police action. Many videos and images shared online have amplified these claims. However, none of these allegations have been independently verified or officially confirmed till now.
Protest organisers have vowed to continue demonstrations across the country until their demands are addressed. With the movement spreading to multiple states, the political and public response continues to grow.
More official details are awaited as the situation develops.