CPI(M) Polit Bureau member Pinarayi Vijayan has demanded that the National Testing Agency (NTA) be dissolved in light of the NEET-UG 2026 cancellation. He also called for handing back the responsibility for conducting examinations to the respective State government agencies, as was done earlier.

Mr. Vijayan described the controversy surrounding the NEET examination and allegations of question paper leaks as extremely serious and condemnable.

He pointed out that this was not the first time question papers had leaked after the Central government entrusted the NTA with conducting examinations. The situation has destroyed the trust and confidence of lakhs of students who prepare for the examination through years of hard work.

“Students from poor families approach the examination with years of effort and financial difficulties, but such irregularities rob them of fair opportunities,” the CPI(M) leader said in a statement issued on Wednesday (May 13, 2026).

According to him, the failure of those responsible for conducting examinations in a credible manner to ensure security was a major disgrace to the country’s education system. Referring to allegations regarding the question paper leaks, he expressed concern over the purported role of “coaching institute mafias”.

Demands stringent punishment

Calling for a comprehensive, transparent and time-bound investigation, Mr. Vijayan demanded stringent punishment for whoever was responsible. He also urged urgent intervention by the Centre to restore the credibility of the examination system.

“Students’ future is not a laboratory for experiments. Do not destroy students’ dreams by turning the conduct of entrance examinations into a mockery,” he said.