Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition and BJD President Naveen Patnaik has expressed grave concern over the alleged examination paper leak and demanded a thorough discussion on the issue in the upcoming session of Parliament.
In a post on X, Naveen said that for millions of children in the country, education remains the only path to a brighter future. He noted that every developed nation is built upon a strong education system and a transparent, credible examination process. India too has made remarkable progress because of the strength of its education system, which has nurtured generations of doctors, scientists, engineers, teachers and innovators who have shaped modern India.
“Today, however, trust in this system stands broken. The damage goes far beyond a failed exam. It shatters faith in the very foundation of education system. It tells deserving students that hard work no longer matters, and robs them of their only ladder out of poverty. A nation that compromises the integrity of its examination system, compromises its own future,” Naveen stated.
Calling it a grave issue affecting millions of students across the country, the former Chief Minister said the matter must be taken up in Parliament as the highest priority. He urged that it deserves a thorough debate in the temple of democracy, leading to concrete reforms to ensure that paper leaks, flawed assessments and systemic failures are never repeated. He also stressed that accountability must be fixed for this lapse of trust.
Putting politics aside, Naveen urged the government to initiate a meaningful dialogue with students who have been peacefully protesting for days. He said they must be given a platform to express their views, adding that a vibrant democracy advances through dialogue, not silence, and this dialogue is most vital when it involves the youth of the nation.
“The children and young people of India are looking to us for leadership. We cannot fail them,” he said, adding that sincere and open-minded dialogue with peaceful youth protestors will help restore faith in democracy, in the education system and in the leadership entrusted with shaping their future. The BJD President asserted that his party stands firmly with the youth and students of the country.
