Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Thursday alleged that anti-national forces are fuelling the ongoing student agitation in New Delhi, urging youth to distance themselves from divisive elements aiming to defame India internationally.
Speaking at a press conference in Bhubaneswar, the minister defended the Central government’s response to the NEET paper leak, emphasising that swift action was taken as soon as the scam came to light. He highlighted that law enforcement authorities immediately launched an investigation, arrested key suspects, and initiated strict legal proceedings.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that the interests of students are our top priority. Whoever is found to be involved in the question paper leak scam will be brought to justice at the earliest. PM Modi has also announced the establishment of fast‑track courts to ensure the speedy trial of those involved and to deliver timely justice to students through swift punishment of the guilty,” he said.
Harichandan noted that the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination was conducted smoothly without disruptions across all designated exam centres. He also commended high-performing students from Odisha for their achievements.
Questioning the motive behind the continued demonstrations, Harichandan remarked, “Now, the point is, when the culprits were arrested, the examination was already completed, and results have been declared, what is the necessity of a protest in Delhi and this ‘Sansad Chalo Abhiyan’? That remains a major question mark.”
The minister targeted Abhijit Dipke, a key figure leading the CJP agitation, alleging his past associations with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). He claimed the protests are secretly backed by the Congress, AAP, and left parties for political gain after losing public credibility, accusing them of misleading students for selfish political agendas.
“The Left parties, the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress Party, together with the support of anti‑national forces and other countries that are interested in destabilising and defaming India in different ways, have now come together to fight in the name of the students of this country,” said Harichandan.
Describing students as the primary torchbearers of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ the minister urged them to stay vigilant and avoid being manipulated by political parties or disruptive forces.
He concluded by advising that if students or political parties have constructive suggestions to improve the education system, they should engage in direct dialogue with the government rather than taking to the streets.
