Madhya Pradesh government is preparing a new scholarship scheme for meritorious children of construction workers. Selected students will receive monthly financial assistance along with support for coaching, hostel and education expenses.

Students from families of registered construction workers in Madhya Pradesh may soon get financial support for higher education and competitive exam preparation.The Madhya Pradesh government is preparing the ‘Bhavan Evam Anya Sannirman Shramik Shri Medha Chhatra Unnayan Yojana’, under which selected meritorious students will receive ₹7,500 per month as educational assistance.The draft of the scheme has been prepared and sent for the process of gazette notification. The government has proposed implementing the scheme within the current year.

Support for NEET, JEE and CLAT preparation

The proposed scheme will cover expenses related to major entrance examinations, including:

• NEET for medical education

• JEE for engineering admissions

• CLAT for law education

The financial assistance can be used for coaching fees, tuition fees, books, hostel charges and other educational requirements.

Aim to support talented students

The scheme is aimed at helping talented students from economically weaker construction worker families continue their studies and prepare for professional courses.Officials involved in the proposal said the assistance would reduce the financial burden on families and provide students access to better preparation facilities.

Scheme awaits final approval

The scheme draft has been prepared, but the final implementation will take place after completion of the notification process.Further details regarding eligibility criteria, application process and selection procedure are expected after the official notification is issued.

 Proceedings in the Lok Sabha were adjourned for the day on Wednesday amid continued protests by Opposition MPs over the alleged police action against students protesting the NEET paper leak issue.

The disruption came as Union Home Minister Amit Shah sought time from Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for a discussion on the student protests. Shah said he was ready to remain present in the House and respond to questions raised by the Opposition. (The Times of India)

The Opposition, however, continued to demand answers from the government, with Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi saying that MPs were not interested in listening to a “lecture” and instead wanted accountability over the alleged use of force against protesting students.

Amit Shah Seeks Discussion

In a letter to Speaker Om Birla, Shah urged the Speaker to consult Opposition parties and decide by consensus how many hours or days should be allotted for a discussion on the issue.

Shah also said he would remain available in Parliament and answer questions raised by Opposition MPs.

Earlier, Shah said the government was ready to discuss every issue but appealed to the Opposition to allow Parliament to function.

In a subsequent statement, he proposed that the Opposition submit its request to the Speaker by 2 pm so that a discussion could begin at 3 pm. (The Times of India)

Rahul Gandhi Rejects ‘Lecture’

Rahul Gandhi rejected Shah's offer, saying the Opposition wanted direct answers rather than a lecture.

He questioned who had ordered the alleged use of force against students at Jantar Mantar, including lathis and other weapons, and asked whether the Home Minister had authorised such action.

Gandhi said that if Shah had ordered firing against students, he should resign. He also accused the Home Minister of remaining absent from Parliament for an extended period and demanded that he come to the House and answer questions.

The Opposition has been pressing the government for a discussion on the student protests and alleged police action.

Opposition Enters Well

As proceedings began, Opposition MPs entered the Well of the Lok Sabha and raised slogans. The Chair repeatedly asked members to return to their seats and allow proceedings to continue.

The protests disrupted the legislative business, with the Lok Sabha being adjourned several times during the day before finally being adjourned for the day.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised the Opposition's conduct and said Amit Shah was ready to participate in the proposed discussion.

FCRA Bill Sent to JPC

Amid the disruptions, the government moved a proposal to refer the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, to a Joint Parliamentary Committee.

The Lok Sabha approved the proposal. The committee will have 21 members from the Lok Sabha and 10 from the Rajya Sabha.

The government has argued that the proposed changes are aimed at strengthening oversight and transparency in foreign contributions. Opposition parties have raised concerns over the possible impact of the amendments on organisations receiving foreign funding. (The Times of India)

Mines and Minerals Bill Passed

The Lok Sabha also passed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, amid Opposition protests.

The legislation was passed without a detailed debate after Opposition MPs entered the Well and raised slogans. The Chair questioned why Opposition members had not moved amendments during the relevant stage if they wanted to formally oppose provisions of the Bill.

Yashwant Varma Report Tabled

The inquiry report into the cash recovery case involving Justice Yashwant Varma was also tabled in both Houses of Parliament.

The two-volume report contains oral and documentary evidence collected during the inquiry. The matter had come to light after the recovery of cash from premises linked to Justice Varma.

Parliament Remains Disrupted

The repeated adjournments have highlighted the widening confrontation between the government and Opposition over the student protests and other issues.

While the government says it is prepared for a detailed discussion, the Opposition continues to seek direct answers and accountability. With the Lok Sabha eventually adjourned for the day, the standoff is likely to continue when Parliament meets again.

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use his Independence Day address to directly address concerns among India's youth, particularly on education, unemployment and rising inflation.

In a post on X on Friday, Dipke called on the Prime Minister to outline the government's plans and measures aimed at addressing issues affecting young people.

"We request the Prime Minister to explain what steps the government is taking for the youth on issues of education, unemployment and rising inflation," Dipke said in the post.

He also shared a link to an online petition and appealed to people who supported the campaign to sign it.

According to the information shared by the party, the petition had received more than 32,000 signatures by 4 am on Saturday. The link directs users to the CJP website, where they can participate in the campaign.

Focus on Youth Issues

Dipke's appeal comes ahead of Independence Day on August 15, when the Prime Minister traditionally addresses the nation from the Red Fort in New Delhi.

The CJP founder has sought a specific focus on issues that directly affect young Indians, including employment opportunities, access to education and the rising cost of living.

The party has increasingly positioned youth-related concerns at the centre of its political activities.

‘Kya Bolti Public’ Campaign

CJP has also announced plans to launch a nationwide public outreach campaign called 'Kya Bolti Public' from September.

Dipke announced the campaign during a media interaction in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, on Thursday.

Under the campaign, party representatives plan to travel to villages and cities and interact with young people to understand their concerns.

According to Dipke, unemployment and expensive education will be among the major issues highlighted during the outreach programme.

The campaign is expected to provide the party with an opportunity to engage directly with voters and gather public feedback on issues affecting different communities.

Protest Over NEET Issue

CJP has also been active in protests concerning the NEET-UG examination controversy.

Dipke and members of the party staged a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for 36 consecutive days, from June 20 to July 25.

The protest focused on allegations surrounding irregularities and the NEET examination system.

The party announced the conclusion of its protest on July 25 following the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

CJP had demanded greater accountability and reforms in the examination system, particularly over concerns affecting medical aspirants.

Party Expands Organisation

The CJP also announced the formation of its National Working Committee on Thursday.

The party said it plans to establish state coordination committees along with Lok Sabha-level and city-level organisational units across the country over the next six months.

The move is part of an effort to expand the party's organisational presence beyond its existing base.

Political Outreach Ahead

The combination of the Independence Day appeal, the petition campaign and the planned 'Kya Bolti Public' programme indicates that youth concerns are likely to remain central to CJP's political messaging.

By focusing on employment, education costs and inflation, the party is seeking to connect its campaign with issues that affect a large section of India's younger population.

However, the petition and campaign represent the political position of CJP and Dipke and do not constitute government policy announcements.

With the Independence Day address approaching, Dipke's appeal places the focus on whether the Prime Minister will specifically address employment and education concerns in his national message.

Every year, millions of Indian students walk into coaching classrooms carrying dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, civil servants or securing admission to prestigious universities. Many emerge successful. But countless others leave with something far heavier—anxiety, burnout, shattered confidence and, in the most tragic cases, lives cut short.

India's coaching industry, estimated to be worth billions of dollars, has become one of the country's most influential education ecosystems. From Kota and Hyderabad to Delhi, Patna and Prayagraj, coaching institutes have transformed entire cities into academic hubs. Their advertisements celebrate rank holders, AIR-1 achievers and record-breaking selections. Hidden behind those billboards, however, are stories that rarely make the marketing brochures.

The issue is not coaching itself. Extra academic support has always existed and will continue to play an important role for students preparing for competitive examinations. The problem begins when coaching stops being supplementary education and starts replacing childhood, curiosity and mental well-being.

For many families, coaching has become less of a choice and more of a necessity. Parents often invest years of savings, believing that admission into an elite institution is the only path to financial security. Students, some barely in their teens, find themselves locked into relentless schedules that stretch from early morning classes to late-night practice tests. Success becomes a number, failure a permanent label.

This pressure is amplified by the country's intensely competitive entrance examinations. Limited seats, massive applicant pools and high expectations create an environment where every mark seems life-changing. Coaching institutes, operating in this ecosystem, frequently reinforce the belief that a student's worth can be measured by a rank.

The psychological consequences are increasingly visible. Reports of depression, loneliness, panic disorders and academic burnout among students have become disturbingly common. Cities known for coaching have also witnessed repeated incidents of student suicides, prompting governments to introduce guidelines on counselling, hostel conditions and class timings. While these interventions are necessary, they address the symptoms rather than the underlying culture.

Another concern is the widening inequality created by the coaching economy. Quality coaching often comes at a significant financial cost, making access easier for affluent families while placing enormous economic strain on others. Even with scholarships and online platforms, many students continue to face unequal opportunities simply because they cannot afford premium preparation.

Technology has further reshaped this landscape. Online coaching has expanded access, but it has also intensified competition. Students are now surrounded by constant performance comparisons through leaderboards, test analytics and social media posts celebrating top scorers. The pressure no longer ends when classes are over—it follows them home through smartphones and laptops.

The solution is not to dismantle the coaching industry. Millions of students genuinely benefit from structured guidance, experienced faculty and disciplined preparation. Instead, policymakers, educational institutions and coaching providers must redefine what success looks like.

Mental health support should become a core component of coaching programmes rather than an afterthought. Professional counsellors, stress-management sessions and regular psychological assessments should be treated as essential services. Academic performance cannot come at the cost of emotional well-being.

Schools also need to reclaim their role. A robust school education system that adequately prepares students for higher education would reduce excessive dependence on private coaching. Entrance examinations, meanwhile, should continue evolving to assess analytical ability and conceptual understanding rather than rewarding memorisation and repetitive practice alone.

Parents have an equally important role. Aspirations are natural, but they must not become burdens. A child's identity cannot be confined to an examination score or college admission. Encouragement, realistic expectations and emotional support often matter as much as academic preparation.

India's demographic dividend depends not only on producing skilled professionals but also on nurturing healthy, confident and resilient young people. An education system that manufactures excellence while simultaneously manufacturing despair cannot be called a complete success.

The coaching industry has undoubtedly helped shape thousands of remarkable careers. Yet the true measure of its contribution should not be the number of toppers it produces, but whether it allows every student—successful or otherwise—to emerge with dignity, confidence and hope intact.

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) entered the second day of its two-day core committee meeting on Thursday, with founder Abhijeet Dipke scheduled to address a press conference at 2 pm to announce the organisation's future strategy after its 36-day Jantar Mantar protest.

The meeting is focused on reviewing the Delhi agitation, expanding the organisation nationwide and chalking out future campaigns on issues including unemployment, inflation, education reforms, the alleged NEET paper leak and the Centre's ethanol-blended fuel policy.

Focus on Nationwide Expansion

Senior members of the organisation are deliberating on strengthening the group's presence across states and coordinating future public movements.

According to party leaders, the discussions are centred on transforming the momentum generated during the Jantar Mantar protest into a sustained nationwide campaign while continuing to function as a public pressure group.

Thirteen core committee members, including founder Abhijeet Dipke and student leader Saurav Das, are participating in the meeting.

No Plans to Contest Elections

Addressing the media on the opening day of the meeting, Dipke ruled out the possibility of entering electoral politics in the near future.

He said the country does not currently need another political party but rather a strong citizens' pressure group capable of compelling governments to address public concerns.

Dipke stated that the success of the Jantar Mantar movement was rooted in the participation of people from different ideological backgrounds who united over common issues affecting students and youth.

He added that the organisation intends to continue raising concerns related to education, examination reforms, E20 petrol, unemployment and governance through democratic public movements.

Review of Jantar Mantar Protest

The meeting is also reviewing the organisation's month-long agitation at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.

The protest began on June 20 and continued for 36 days before concluding on July 25. Thousands of students, parents and young people from different states participated in the movement.

Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk also joined the protest and observed a hunger strike in support of the students' demands.

On July 20, the organisation led a march towards Parliament, during which police action against protesters became a major political issue.

Five days later, after the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, CJP announced the suspension of its protest.

Movement Began as Online Campaign

The Cockroach Janta Party traces its origins to a social media campaign launched after remarks made by Chief Justice of India Justice Suryakant during a Supreme Court hearing triggered widespread debate online.

Abhijeet Dipke, an Indian student based in the United States, started the campaign using the name "Cockroach Janta Party" as a satirical protest.

What began as an online movement soon attracted support from students across the country and gradually evolved into an organised youth campaign.

The organisation later expanded its agenda by raising concerns over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, examination reforms and broader education-related issues.

Press Conference Expected to Outline Future Plans

Dipke is expected to announce the decisions taken during the core committee meeting at Thursday afternoon's press conference.

The organisation is likely to unveil its roadmap for future nationwide campaigns and explain how it plans to continue mobilising students and young people without formally entering electoral politics.

Chennai: The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government on Wednesday presented its first State Budget in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly, outlining a roadmap centred on welfare, transparency, education and fiscal reforms. Presenting the Budget, Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson praised Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay for introducing administrative reforms aimed at improving transparency in governance, particularly in the tendering process.

During his Budget speech, Wilson said the government had taken significant steps to eliminate alleged irregularities in public contracts and ensure that government revenue reaches the state treasury without leakages. He described transparency in tender allocation as one of the major administrative reforms initiated by the new government.

The Finance Minister also acknowledged the financial challenges inherited by the administration and said the government is working towards strengthening the state's economy. Earlier, the TVK government had released a white paper stating that Tamil Nadu's outstanding debt stood at nearly ₹10 lakh crore. According to Wilson, the Budget has been prepared with an emphasis on financial discipline while continuing welfare programmes.

One of the major announcements was the allocation of more than ₹1,300 crore for two flagship gold assistance schemes promised by the TVK during the Assembly elections. The government has earmarked ₹812 crore for the Gold Coin and Silk Saree Scheme, under which eligible brides will receive eight grams of gold along with a silk saree during marriage.

Another ₹560 crore has been allocated for the Gold Ring Scheme, which will provide gold rings to newborn babies delivered in government hospitals. Both programmes were among the key election commitments made by the ruling party.

The government has also announced ₹2,000 crore for the Vettri Madikanini Thittam, under which laptops will be distributed to college students. The scheme aims to improve digital access and strengthen higher education by ensuring students have access to modern learning tools.

Reiterating the government's long-standing opposition to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), the Finance Minister urged the Central Government to abolish the entrance examination and restore admissions to medical colleges based on Class 12 board examination marks. The Budget speech stated that the government remains committed to protecting students' interests and ensuring equal educational opportunities.

Several measures related to minority welfare were also announced. The subsidy for first-time Haj pilgrims travelling through the Haj Committee has been increased from ₹25,000 to ₹35,000, providing additional financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries.

The education sector also received significant attention in the Budget. The government has allocated ₹300 crore for the modernisation of government schools, focusing on infrastructure improvements and better learning facilities. An additional ₹125 crore has been earmarked for establishing ultra-modern residential schools named after former Chief Minister K. Kamaraj, with the objective of expanding access to quality education.

To strengthen anti-drug initiatives, the government has provided ₹7 crore under the Drug-Free Tamil Nadu programme. The initiative aims to enhance awareness campaigns, prevention measures and enforcement efforts against drug abuse, particularly among young people.

Highlighting achievements of the government since assuming office, the Finance Minister said 717 liquor outlets had already been shut down. He also referred to the continuation of 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers as part of the government's welfare commitments.

The Budget outlined several broader development priorities, including women's empowerment, social justice, housing for all, and improvements in public welfare schemes. Wilson said these initiatives reflect the government's long-term vision of inclusive development while balancing economic recovery with social welfare.

The presentation of the Budget marks the first comprehensive financial roadmap of the Vijay-led administration, outlining its priorities across welfare, education, governance reforms and fiscal management for the current financial year.

Six NEET aspirants have approached the Supreme Court alleging discrepancies between the answers they marked on their original OMR sheets and the scanned copies uploaded by the National Testing Agency (NTA), claiming the mismatch could adversely affect their medical admissions.

The petition comes at a crucial stage as the NEET counselling process is already underway, prompting the students to seek an urgent hearing before the apex court.

Supreme Court Agrees to List Matter

The matter was mentioned before a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohan.

Appearing for the petitioners, counsel urged the court to hear the matter on priority, stating that only six students were involved and that counselling had already begun.

Responding to the request, the Chief Justice said, "We will list it," indicating that the matter would be taken up for hearing.

Students Allege OMR Discrepancies

According to the petition, the candidates found differences between the responses they had marked in the examination and those reflected in the scanned OMR sheets uploaded by the NTA.

The petitioners contend that the alleged discrepancies have resulted in lower scores, potentially affecting their eligibility for admission to medical colleges.

Their counsel informed the court that all six students had expected scores in the range of 600 to 650 marks, making the alleged errors significant in determining their final ranks and admission prospects.

Alleged Response from NTA

The students claim they repeatedly contacted the NTA through emails and also visited its office seeking correction of the alleged discrepancies.

However, according to the petition, their representations were not acted upon.

The counsel further alleged that an NTA official told the students, "Go to the Supreme Court. We don't bother about this," after they raised concerns regarding the OMR sheets.

The NTA has not publicly responded to these specific allegations.

Issue Surfaces During Counselling

The plea assumes significance as medical admissions based on NEET scores are currently in progress across the country.

The petitioners have argued that any delay in resolving the issue could cause irreversible prejudice to their admission opportunities.

NEET Reforms Under Judicial Scrutiny

The latest petition comes amid broader judicial scrutiny of the NEET examination process following the 2026 paper leak controversy.

The Supreme Court has recently emphasised the need for systemic and institutional reforms within the National Testing Agency to improve transparency and examination integrity.

Earlier, the NTA had released scanned copies of candidates' OMR answer sheets and provided an objection window before announcing the final results.

Meanwhile, similar disputes are also pending before other courts. The Bombay High Court is hearing a petition alleging discrepancies between expected and declared NEET scores, while the Delhi High Court is examining a case in which a student claimed that his score changed multiple times on the NTA portal.

The Supreme Court's decision in the present matter could have implications for the affected candidates as the counselling process continues.

A Surat-based Right to Information (RTI) activist has sought an official investigation into the financial background of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and his family, raising questions about the funding of his higher education in the United States and the functioning of the organisation.

The complaints have been submitted to the Maharashtra government, the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), seeking inquiries into the family's income, assets and CJP's financial operations.

Questions Raised Over US Education Funding

RTI activist Amit Tiwari has alleged that Abhijeet Dipke's father, Bhagwanrao Dipke, worked as a Junior Engineer (JE) with the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) and reportedly earned a monthly salary of around ₹60,000 to ₹65,000.

In his complaint, Tiwari has asked authorities to examine how the family financed the higher education of their children in the United States based on their declared income.

He has also urged the Maharashtra government to verify the family's income sources and assets.

Seeks Inquiry Into CJP's Functioning

The activist has further alleged that the Cockroach Janata Party is functioning as a political organisation without being registered with the Election Commission while collecting public donations.

In his representation to the ECI, Tiwari requested the Commission to examine whether CJP should be registered as a political party under Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, if it is operating as one and raising public funds.

Complaint Over ₹1 Crore Legal Defence Fund

In a separate complaint submitted to the CBIC, Tiwari questioned the ₹1 crore contribution announced by Rajya Sabha MP and senior advocate Kapil Sibal towards the CJP Legal Defence Fund.

He has sought an examination of whether the contribution attracts 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) under applicable laws.

The activist also alleged that although CJP initially campaigned on the NEET paper leak issue, its activities later expanded beyond student-related concerns. He further claimed that complaints had been submitted regarding remarks allegedly made during protests against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his late mother and his alleged foreign connections.

These allegations have been made by the complainant and have not been independently verified or adjudicated by the authorities.

Legal Defence Fund Announced for Students

On July 27, the Cockroach Janata Party announced the creation of a Legal Defence Fund to provide legal assistance to students facing criminal cases related to protests over the alleged NEET paper leak.

During the announcement, Kapil Sibal pledged ₹1 crore to the fund and appealed to lawyers across the country to contribute.

According to CJP spokesperson Saurav Das, the fund was established amid concerns that students could face criminal proceedings despite assurances from the Union government. He said the organisation was coordinating with Supreme Court lawyers to provide legal representation.

About Abhijeet Dipke

Abhijeet Dipke, 30, is a digital media strategist from Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. He studied journalism in Pune and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Public Relations at Boston University in the United States. He has previously worked with the Aam Aadmi Party.

Government pushes key legislative agenda as House likely to vote on anti-paper leak law after nearly nine hours of debate

The Lok Sabha is set to continue discussions on the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 for a second consecutive day, with the government expected to seek its passage after an extended debate that lasted nearly nine hours on Tuesday.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh will move the motion for consideration and passage of the Bill, which seeks to strengthen legal provisions against paper leaks and examination-related malpractice. The proposed legislation amends the 2024 law, with the Centre stating that stricter provisions are necessary to restore public confidence in the country's examination system.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi is expected to address the Lok Sabha on the Bill at around 12:30 pm, with the debate likely to witness another round of sharp exchanges between the Treasury and Opposition benches over examination reforms and accountability.

Several key Bills on House agenda

Apart from the anti-paper leak legislation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to introduce the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha.

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal will also introduce a Bill proposing an increase in the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court. The House is additionally expected to table several ministry-related reports and statements on parliamentary committee recommendations.

If passed in the Lok Sabha, the anti-paper leak Bill is likely to be introduced in the Rajya Sabha later this week.

Opposition finalises strategy

Ahead of Wednesday's proceedings, leaders of the INDIA bloc met under the leadership of Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge to coordinate their floor strategy.

Congress leaders raised multiple issues, including electoral reforms, the anti-defection law, alleged financial irregularities in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Trust, and the Cauvery water dispute. The Opposition is also expected to question the government over repeated examination irregularities and the effectiveness of the existing legal framework.

Debate over effectiveness of previous law

The Opposition has argued that repeated paper leak incidents exposed weaknesses in the current system despite the enactment of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav questioned the government's record, alleging that several paper leak cases occurred under the BJP-led administration and demanding details of arrests and prosecutions under the existing law.

The government, however, maintains that the amendment is intended to further tighten enforcement and close loopholes identified after recent examination controversies.

Background: NEET controversy prompted reforms

The push for stronger legislation follows the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, which led to nationwide protests and widespread criticism of the examination process.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the original examination and conducted a re-test following allegations of a question paper leak. The controversy triggered demonstrations by students across several states and intensified demands for stricter safeguards against organised examination fraud.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently probing the case. According to official information shared in Parliament, 13 people have been arrested so far, and the agency is expected to file its chargesheet shortly.

The proposed amendment seeks to strengthen legal provisions to deter organised paper leak networks, safeguard competitive examinations, and improve transparency and accountability in the examination system.

 The Supreme Court on Tuesday indicated that it may order an independent investigation into allegations of police excesses during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest over the alleged NEET paper leak, observing that democratic protests are legitimate but any unlawful acts by either protesters or authorities must be held accountable.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohan, was hearing a batch of petitions alleging excessive use of force by police during the July 20 demonstration in the national capital.

CJI Questions Need for Independent Investigation

During the hearing, the Chief Justice noted that the allegations placed before the court disclosed a prima facie case warranting further examination.

Questioning whether an impartial inquiry was required, the Bench remarked, "Why should there not be an independent probe into these allegations?"

The petitions allege that protesters, including students, women, advocates and media personnel, were subjected to excessive police force during the march, resulting in serious injuries.

Court Stresses Accountability for All Sides

The Bench observed that protests are an essential part of a democratic society and cannot, by themselves, justify the use of excessive force.

At the same time, the court emphasised that anyone who violated the law during the demonstrations—including protesters or officials—must face legal consequences.

The judges noted that once an appropriate legal framework is established, every individual responsible for violence or excesses should be held accountable.

High-Powered Committee Under Consideration

The Supreme Court indicated that it is considering the constitution of a high-powered committee to investigate incidents of violence not only in Delhi but also in other states where similar allegations have emerged.

The proposed panel may also examine broader issues relating to crowd management and policing during public demonstrations.

Uniform Protest Protocol Suggested

During the proceedings, the Bench highlighted the need for a nationwide protocol governing public protests and police crowd-control measures.

The court observed that demonstrations across the country have evolved significantly in recent years and existing procedures may require revision to balance public order with constitutional rights.

At the same time, the Bench acknowledged that law enforcement agencies often face difficult situations where peaceful protests may be infiltrated by violent elements, complicating crowd-control operations.

The judges said all stakeholders, including governments, police authorities and petitioners, should assist the court in developing a balanced framework.

Families of Injured Police Personnel Move Supreme Court

In a related development, the families of four Delhi Police personnel injured during the July 20 violence have also approached the Supreme Court.

The application has been filed on behalf of ACP Kailash Singh Bisht, ASI Sandeep, Constable Dheeraj and ASI Hemendar Rathi, who were injured while performing law-and-order duties during the protest.

The petition seeks directions to ensure that police personnel deployed during public demonstrations receive adequate protection of their right to life and personal liberty.

It also requests the court to frame comprehensive guidelines for safeguarding both male and female police personnel while handling protests and to ensure accountability for those allegedly responsible for attacks on law enforcement officials.

Case Expands Beyond Police Action

The latest application broadens the scope of the ongoing proceedings, which initially focused on allegations of police excesses against protesters.

The Supreme Court is now examining issues relating to the rights, responsibilities and safety of both demonstrators and police personnel, while also considering broader institutional reforms for managing public protests across the country.

The matter is expected to come up for further hearing as the court considers the framework for an independent inquiry and nationwide guidelines.

 Social media giant Meta has apologised after a Facebook video posted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was temporarily restricted on its platform, attributing the incident to a technical error. The company said the content had been removed mistakenly and has since been restored.

The controversy erupted after a video shared by the Prime Minister regarding the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protests was briefly inaccessible to users on Facebook. During the period it remained unavailable, users attempting to view the post were shown a message stating that the content had been restricted in India due to a legal request.

Meta Says Video Was Removed by Mistake

Responding to the incident, a Meta spokesperson said the restriction was unintentional.

"The content was removed in error and has since been restored," the company said.

The clarification came after the incident triggered criticism from several quarters, with concerns being raised over the temporary blocking of a post shared by the country's Prime Minister.

Government Seeks Explanation

According to reports, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has taken note of the incident and is expected to seek a detailed explanation from Meta regarding how the Prime Minister's video was restricted.

Government sources indicated that the issue is being treated seriously, and Meta's global leadership has reportedly been asked to clarify the circumstances that led to the temporary removal of the content.

Video Focused on Paper Leak Reforms

The video was uploaded while nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak were still underway.

In the address, Prime Minister Modi spoke about the government's proposed measures to curb examination malpractices, including the establishment of fast-track courts for paper leak cases and plans to strengthen the country's anti-paper leak law.

The message formed part of the government's outreach to students and young citizens amid growing public concern over examination irregularities.

Protests Ended After Government Accepted Key Demands

The controversy comes shortly after the 36-day-long CJP-led protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar concluded following the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The protest ended after the government accepted three key demands, including:

• Compensation for families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide.

• Withdrawal of FIRs and legal cases registered against protesting students.

• Resignation of the Education Minister.

Dharmendra Pradhan stepped down on July 25, following which protest organisers announced the conclusion of the agitation.

Digital Outreach to Young Voters

Reports suggest the Prime Minister has increasingly relied on social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook, to engage with younger audiences.

The now-restored video was viewed as part of this broader digital outreach strategy, aimed at communicating the government's position on examination reforms and addressing concerns raised by students across the country.

The incident has also reignited discussions about content moderation practices adopted by global technology companies and the need for greater transparency in handling high-profile public communications.

 Proceedings in the Lok Sabha remained disrupted on Monday as the Opposition stalled the discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, demanding an immediate debate on the alleged police action against students protesting the NEET paper leak issue in Bihar.

The amendment bill, aimed at further strengthening India's anti-paper leak law, was listed for discussion after being introduced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh. However, when the House reconvened at 2 pm, Opposition members entered the Well of the House, raising slogans and insisting that Parliament first discuss the alleged assault on students during recent protests.

With repeated disruptions, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged members to allow the House to function and participate in the scheduled debate. He said six hours had been allocated for discussion on the legislation and appealed to both the government and Opposition to arrive at a consensus before proceedings resumed later in the evening.

"I give you time until 5 pm. The government and Opposition members should come to a consensus," Birla said before adjourning the House.

The Lok Sabha witnessed multiple adjournments during the day, first at noon, then at 2 pm and later until 5 pm due to the continued uproar. Similar scenes were witnessed in the Rajya Sabha, where proceedings were also repeatedly adjourned.

Government Pushes Tougher Anti-Paper Leak Law

The proposed amendment seeks to tighten the 2024 Public Examinations Act, which was enacted to curb examination malpractices.

Under the proposed changes, punishment for those involved in paper leaks and organised cheating rackets will be enhanced. The Bill also empowers states and Union Territories to establish special fast-track courts for day-to-day hearings of examination-related offences.

The legislation covers examinations conducted by central agencies, including the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Staff Selection Commission (SSC), National Testing Agency (NTA), Railway recruitment bodies and banking recruitment agencies.

The government decided to strengthen the law following the nationwide outrage over the NEET paper leak controversy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently announced that stricter legal provisions would be introduced and also constituted a high-powered task force on examination reforms under Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.

Opposition Seeks Discussion on Student Protest

The Opposition maintained that Parliament should first discuss the alleged police action against students protesting the NEET paper leak.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that protesting students in Bihar faced excessive force and claimed hundreds had been detained. He demanded accountability for those responsible.

RJD Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Kumar Jha has also approached the Supreme Court seeking registration of an FIR against officials over the alleged police action during the protests.

Congress MP Manish Tewari criticised the reported use of force, calling it "inhuman," and argued that the proposed amendment alone would not address deeper issues affecting the country's examination system.

BJP Accuses Opposition of Blocking Debate

The ruling BJP accused Opposition parties of preventing Parliament from discussing legislation meant to protect students.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju appealed to Congress leaders to allow the debate, saying the Bill directly concerns the future of India's youth. He questioned why parties demanding discussion since the beginning of the session were now disrupting the House.

BJP MPs Tarun Chugh, Vivek Thakur, and Kangana Ranaut also criticised the Opposition, accusing it of politicising an important education reform measure.

Dharmendra Pradhan Returns to Parliament

The day also marked the first appearance of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in Parliament after his resignation over the NEET paper leak controversy. NDA MPs welcomed him with a traditional Mithila pag and shawl before accompanying him into Parliament.

Meanwhile, the NDA Parliamentary Party is scheduled to meet on Tuesday morning, where the government's legislative strategy and the ongoing confrontation over the anti-paper leak Bill are expected to be discussed.