The nationwide "Chatron Ki Goonj" campaign was expanded in Maharashtra as a protest over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak was launched by the Thane District Congress Committee. The campaign was presented as part of a broader effort to raise concerns regarding the functioning of India's competitive examination system. Allegations were made that repeated examination-related controversies had weakened public confidence, particularly among students preparing for national-level entrance examinations.
A press conference was organised in Thane, where concerns were raised over recurring incidents involving question paper leaks, sudden examination cancellations and administrative delays. It was stated that the academic careers of students had been adversely affected while significant financial and emotional pressures had also been experienced. It was argued that the credibility of national competitive examinations had been eroded and that the present situation reflected deeper administrative shortcomings. Previous examination controversies, including the TET scam, were also cited as examples of persistent governance challenges within recruitment and entrance examination systems.
A demand was placed for a high-level and impartial investigation so that those allegedly involved in examination rackets, along with any administrative officials found responsible, could be identified and appropriate action could be initiated. Political accountability was also sought, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was demanded on moral grounds by the district leadership.
Attention was also directed towards the functioning of the National Testing Agency. A comprehensive restructuring of the existing examination framework was sought, and it was proposed that competitive examinations should be conducted according to a fixed annual schedule so that uncertainty among aspirants could be reduced. Greater transparency, improved planning and stronger administrative safeguards were emphasised as essential measures for restoring confidence in the examination process.
Support for the campaign was also expressed by Vijeta Academy Director Satish Jadhav, by whom students were encouraged to participate actively in efforts aimed at promoting fairness and transparency in competitive examinations. Several senior Congress leaders, including Ravindra Koli, Ajinkya Bhoir, Manoj Dubey, Rajesh Mishra, Tarun Singh, Adv. Manoj Dakve and Gopal Sawant, were also present during the media briefing, where collective support for the campaign was demonstrated.
The next phase of the "Chatron Ki Goonj" initiative was announced to begin on June 30 across 28 cities. Interactive sessions with students at colleges are expected to be organised, awareness pamphlets are planned to be distributed, and demonstrations at District Collector offices are scheduled to be held. The campaign is intended to conclude with a large-scale "Delhi Chalo" rally, through which broader public attention is expected to be drawn towards demands for greater accountability, stronger institutional reforms and enhanced transparency in India's competitive examination system.
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