Opposition Rejects PM's Fast-Track Courts, Demands Minister's Resignation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement on Thursday (July 23, 2026) of fast-track courts to handle paper leak cases failed to placate the opposition, which continued to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
In a post on social media platform X, Mr. Modi stated that fast-track courts would be established to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks, akin to the MP/MLA fast-track courts. The post drew responses from across the political spectrum, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose, and Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav.
Mr. Gandhi, in his response, reiterated three demands: sack Mr. Pradhan, apologise to students, and take action against those who assaulted students. He accused the Prime Minister of harming the future of the youth and allowing the destruction of the education system.
Mr. Kharge echoed these demands, stating that the education system has corroded under Mr. Modi's watch. He criticised the government for using force against student protesters, including lathi charges and pellet guns, and urged the Prime Minister to step out of his 'air-conditioned ivory towers' and address the grievances of the youth.
Ms. Ghose, speaking to media before Parliament, maintained that the opposition's position is clear: Mr. Pradhan must resign before any discussion on the NEET examination issue. She questioned why the Prime Minister was shielding the Education Minister when he had not spoken on the matter.
Mr. Yadav also insisted on Mr. Pradhan's resignation, asking why the Prime Minister was not listening to the concerns of the youth. He highlighted that the future of lakhs of young people had been ruined due to the repeated paper leaks.
The opposition's united stance indicates that the PM's announcement of fast-track courts has not eased tensions over the handling of examination irregularities and the alleged mishandling of student protests.
