Akhilesh Yadav urges overhaul of education system, says "plunder" will continue unless the "essence" changes

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday renewed his criticism of the Centre over the NEET paper leak controversy, arguing that cosmetic changes will not solve the problem and that the education system requires comprehensive reforms. In a post shared on X, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister remarked that as long as the "essence" of the system remains unchanged, the "plunder" will continue. He said simply replacing the outer "shell" would not be enough and stressed that the entire "structure" must be transformed to prevent recurring issues.

His comments come as the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination continue to trigger political debate and public protests. Yadav maintained that only deep-rooted institutional reforms, rather than symbolic measures, can restore confidence in the examination process. Referring to the government's response, he noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had initiated action against officials linked to the controversy. As part of the measures taken, 47 senior officials of the National Testing Agency (NTA) have reportedly been dismissed, while authorities have also decided to register an FIR in connection with the case.

The crackdown follows the earlier removal of two NTA secretaries, with the investigation being accelerated. Officials have indicated that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible for the alleged malpractice. A day earlier, Yadav had launched another sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), claiming that the ruling party was at the centre of the country's current challenges. Using a metaphor, he argued that treating the "fruit" would not solve the problem when the "root" itself was diseased, accusing the BJP of being the underlying cause of multiple national issues.

He also called for the BJP's removal from power, ending his message with the slogan, "No Fast Track; BJP Go Back!" The political exchanges come at a time when demonstrations over the NEET controversy continue in several parts of the country. Protesters have demanded greater transparency in the examination system and have also called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.