NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused its political opponents of showing “selective outrage” over the treatment of journalists covering the ongoing NEET-related protests, saying that attacks and intimidation against media professionals cannot be justified under any circumstances. The remarks come amid heightened political tensions surrounding demonstrations over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and the broader debate over accountability in the education system.
BJP questions silence over attacks on journalists
BJP leaders argued that several journalists covering the protests were subjected to verbal abuse, intimidation and hostility while reporting from protest sites. The party maintained that violence or harassment directed at members of the media should receive equal condemnation, irrespective of which news organisation or journalist is targeted.
BJP IT Department head Amit Malviya criticised what he described as “selective outrage,” claiming that some journalists were abused and labelled during the protests while others were treated differently. According to the BJP, freedom of the press must be protected consistently and should not become a partisan issue.
The party stated that journalists perform an essential public service by reporting developments from the ground and should be allowed to work without fear of intimidation or violence.
Political battle intensifies over NEET protests
The controversy has unfolded against the backdrop of widespread demonstrations linked to alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Students and several opposition parties have organised protests demanding accountability, reforms in the examination process and action against those responsible for the alleged paper leak.
The protests have become a major political issue, with opposition leaders accusing the government of failing to protect the integrity of competitive examinations. The ruling BJP, meanwhile, has alleged that some political groups are attempting to exploit student concerns for political gains rather than focusing on constructive reforms.
Media safety becomes part of the debate
Apart from the dispute over the examination itself, the safety of journalists covering demonstrations has emerged as another point of contention. BJP leaders said that media personnel should not face abuse simply because they represent particular organisations or are reporting from politically sensitive events.
According to the party, democratic protests should allow journalists to carry out their professional responsibilities freely. BJP leaders stressed that disagreements with media coverage should never translate into physical or verbal attacks on reporters.
The party also argued that all incidents involving journalists deserve equal attention, regardless of whether the affected media outlet is perceived to be supportive or critical of any political ideology.
Opposition continues pressure on the government
Opposition parties have continued to target the Centre over the NEET controversy, demanding greater transparency in the investigation into the alleged paper leak and reforms to restore public confidence in the examination system.
Also Read: India Summons Ukrainian Ambassador After Attack On Merchant Vessel Carrying Indian Crew
Several opposition leaders have participated in demonstrations supporting students and have questioned the government’s handling of the issue. Parliament has also witnessed repeated disruptions over the controversy, reflecting the growing political significance of the protests.
The issue has generated nationwide debate, with students, parents and educational experts expressing concern over the credibility of one of India’s most important entrance examinations.
Legal and administrative developments
The NEET controversy has also reached the Supreme Court, where petitions concerning the protests and alleged police action are being heard. The apex court recently observed that police excesses cannot be justified merely because an agitation is taking place, while agreeing to hear petitions related to the protests.
Separately, the government has announced measures aimed at strengthening the examination system and preventing future irregularities, while investigative agencies continue probing the alleged paper leak.
Authorities have stated that ensuring fairness and transparency in competitive examinations remains a priority as reforms are considered.
BJP reiterates call for equal standards
Reiterating its position, the BJP said democratic societies must uphold freedom of the press and protect journalists regardless of ideological differences. The party maintained that any attack, intimidation or targeting of media personnel should be condemned uniformly rather than viewed through a political lens.
As the political confrontation over the NEET controversy continues, debates over examination reforms, student concerns, law enforcement, and the role of the media are expected to remain central to the national discourse.
With protests continuing in several parts of the country and legal proceedings underway, both the government and the opposition are likely to keep the issue at the forefront of political discussions in the coming days.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates and exclusive coverage.
