NEET row: Demand for education minister’s resignation grows after K’taka student suicide

The NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy has created anger across the country after the death of 18-year-old student Bhagyashree in Karnataka’s Kalaburagi district. The incident has shocked many students and parents and has again raised questions about the country’s examination system.

Bhagyashree had scored 92% in Class 12 and was preparing for a medical career. She was under stress after the cancellation of the NEET exam and confusion over the re-exam process. Her death has started a nationwide discussion about the pressure students face because of repeated paper leak cases.

After the news spread, many students and citizens shared their anger on social media. Several people demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying students are suffering because of repeated paper leak cases and poor management of national-level exams. 

Mental health experts have also expressed concern about the increasing stress among students preparing for competitive exams. According to doctors, uncertainty around exams can badly affect students emotionally and mentally. Experts have suggested that proper counseling services and mental health support should be provided to students at coaching centres and schools.

Similar incidents linked to NEET-related stress have also been reported from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh in recent months. Students across the country are now demanding strict action against paper leak cases and a fair, transparent examination system so that such incidents do not happen again in the future.