ON
← Back to feed
Delhi govt closes NEET protest cases with caveat: No protection for those with criminal antecedents
India🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive5 days ago

Delhi govt closes NEET protest cases with caveat: No protection for those with criminal antecedents

The Delhi government has decided to stop pursuing legal action against individuals involved in protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) examination, except for those with criminal records. The decision follows a crackdown by Delhi Police on protesters during the 'Chalo Sansad' march on July 20, where 2,873 people were identified through CCTV footage. Of these, nearly 1,000 had criminal antecedents. The government stated that legal protections apply to most protesters but exclude those with criminal histories. The move comes amid ongoing protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party, which called for reforms to the examination system and the resignation of then-education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protests gained traction after the NEET exam was canceled due to alleged misconduct.

Actor Mukesh Khanna has sparked outrage by referring to supporters of the NEET paper leak protests as “cockroaches,” urging them to be “thrown out.” In a recent video shared on Instagram, the 68-year-old actor accused the protesters of being driven by an agenda rather than genuine concerns about the leaked exam papers. He warned that their actions could negatively impact their futures, including career prospects, job opportunities, and visa applications. His comments came amid ongoing tensions surrounding the conduct of protesters, particularly following incidents involving inflammatory language directed at political figures and security personnel. Khanna’s remarks followed a broader controversy over the behavior of some participants in student-led demonstrations. A viral incident saw protesters raising vulgar slogans against political leaders and law enforcement, prompting a national discussion. An FIR was reportedly filed against a woman named Ruchika for alleged offensive remarks targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In his video, Khanna stated that despite being abroad, he had monitored developments through social media platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube. He criticized the younger generation, suggesting that if they were to lead the nation in the future, the country might face serious challenges. Khanna claimed that the protest was not genuinely about students affected by the NEET paper leak but instead served as a tool for destabilizing the government. He alleged that organizers had manipulated students into participating in acts of vandalism and verbal abuse, accusing them of being “sold-out” to an external agenda. He emphasized that the protest was not about the legitimate grievances of students but rather a coordinated effort to undermine the administration. He further warned that those involved in the protests could face consequences, including difficulty securing employment or international travel. The controversy also drew in other public figures, including actress and politician Kangana Ranaut, who had previously referred to protesters as “cockroaches.” In a video, she clarified her stance, stating she opposed the obscene behavior observed during the protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). She stressed the importance of maintaining societal norms and respecting the sentiments of others, arguing that personal freedoms should not override collective values. Meanwhile, the Delhi government announced that it would halt legal proceedings against participants in the NEET protests, excluding those with criminal histories. This decision follows similar moves by other states under the ruling NDA government. Bihar became the first to withdraw all FIRs and criminal complaints related to the protests, releasing those detained. The Delhi government’s directive, approved by the Lieutenant Governor, stated that no adverse legal action would be taken against protesters unless they had prior criminal records. The move aims to provide closure to the protests, which began after the NEET (UG) examination was canceled due to allegations of irregularities. The protests, centered around Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, gained momentum after activist Sonam Wangchuk joined with an indefinite hunger strike. The movement initially demanded the resignation of then education minister Dharmendra Pradhan and comprehensive reforms to the examination system. After negotiations with union ministers, the government conceded to several key demands, including Pradhan’s resignation and the formation of a task force led by Nandan Nilekani to suggest improvements. The CJP eventually called off its 37-day protest on July 25 after assurances were given that no legal or police action would be taken against participants. Despite the government’s efforts to resolve the situation, tensions remain high. While some protesters have received leniency, others continue to face legal repercussions. The case of Ahmed, a protester currently in judicial custody, highlights ongoing legal battles, as he sought bail based on the state government’s decision to drop cases. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on balancing accountability with the need for peaceful dissent.

6 reports

The Print logoThe PrintIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 8513 days ago
Left-affiliated students unions organise bandh in Telangana over NEET issue

Left-affiliated student unions in Telangana organized a bandh (strike) to protest against the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), which is a standardized exam required for admission to medical colleges in India. The protest reflects concerns among students and their organizations regarding the NEET policy, potentially related to issues such as access, fairness, or the impact of the exam on admissions processes. Such protests often highlight broader debates around educational policies and their implications for students.

Bias read (Progressive): The article explicitly mentions 'left-affiliated students unions,' indicating a clear alignment with leftist groups. This framing suggests a focus on the actions of politically aligned entities rather than presenting a balanced view of the issue itself.

Why factuality (85): The article reports that a NEET protest accused sought bail, citing the Assam government's move to drop cases. This is presented as a current legal development, with reference to the individual's legal status and the relevant government policy. The information is consistent with public reports and a

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the legal action and the accused's request for bail without expressing personal views or emotional language. It focuses on the facts of the case and the legal procedures involved.

India Today logoIndia TodayIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 605 days ago
Mukesh Khanna calls NEET protest backers 'cockroaches', says throw them out

Actor Mukesh Khanna has criticized supporters of the NEET paper leak protest, calling them 'cockroaches' and urging them to be 'thrown out'. In a video posted on Instagram, Khanna accused the protesters of using students as pawns in an agenda to destabilize the government. He argued that the protest was not about the genuine issue of the leaked exam papers but rather a coordinated effort to undermine authority. Khanna also condemned the use of abusive language during the protests, claiming that those involved were not truly representing affected students. His comments come amid ongoing controversy surrounding the protests, including allegations of inappropriate behavior by some participants and an FIR filed against a protester for remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the NEET protest as politically motivated and destabilizing, aligning with conservative narratives that view student activism as disruptive and ideologically driven. Khanna’s use of strong, derogatory language ('cockroaches') and his accusation that the protest was 'sponsored' by勢

Why factuality (85): The article reports Mukesh Khanna's comments about the NEET protest backers, including his use of the term 'cockroaches' and his claim that the protest was driven by an agenda. These statements are presented as direct quotes from Khanna's video, which is cited as a source. While there is no primary

Why objectivity (60): The article presents Mukesh Khanna's comments in a way that emphasizes his strong criticism of the protesters, using emotionally charged language like 'cockroaches.' This frames the protest in a negative light and suggests a biased perspective. The article also mentions the FIR against Ruchika, whic

NDTV logoNDTVParty-alignedCenterFactual 80Objective 858 days ago
NEET Protest Accused Seeks Bail, Cites Assam Government's Move To Drop Cases

A protester involved in the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) demonstration, named Ahmed, has requested bail from the Judicial Magistrate First Class in Kamrup (Metro). Ahmed argues that since the Assam government has decided to drop all cases related to the NEET protests, his case should also be dismissed. He is currently in judicial custody and is seeking release based on this policy change.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a legal request made by an individual affected by the Assam government's decision to drop NEET protest-related cases. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on specific political viewpoints. The narrative remains neutral, focusing on the legal and

Why factuality (80): The article reports on a Supreme Court ruling allowing FIR probes into the NEET protests while barring coercive action against students. It aligns with the cross-source consensus that the court is investigating potential police excesses. The report is based on official court decisions and maintains

Why objectivity (85): The article presents the court's decision in a neutral manner, focusing on the legal implications without taking sides. It maintains a balanced tone throughout, avoiding emotionally charged language and sticking to the facts presented by the judiciary.

The Print logoThe PrintIndependentProgressiveFactual 80Objective 8013 days ago
Left student unions organise bandh in Telangana over NEET issue

Left-wing student organizations in Telangana have organized a bandh (a form of protest involving a shutdown) in response to issues related to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). This examination is crucial for students seeking admission to medical colleges in India. The protest reflects concerns among left-leaning groups regarding the NEET policy, potentially highlighting disagreements over educational reforms or access to medical education. Such actions often aim to draw attention to specific grievances and influence policy discussions.

Bias read (Progressive): The article explicitly mentions 'left student unions' organizing the protest, which indicates a clear ideological alignment with leftist perspectives. The framing focuses on their actions and motivations, suggesting support for their cause rather than neutrality.

Why factuality (80): The article states that left student unions organized a bandh in Telangana over the NEET issue. While this is a factual report of an event, there is limited contextual information provided, such as the reasons for the bandh or the response from authorities. The lack of additional details may reduce

Why objectivity (80): The article remains neutral in its reporting, simply stating the event without expressing opinion or emotion. It does not frame the bandh in a positive or negative light, maintaining an objective stance.

Hindustan Times logoHindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 657 days ago
Delhi govt closes NEET protest cases with caveat: No protection for those with criminal antecedents

The Delhi government has decided to stop pursuing legal action against individuals involved in protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) examination, except for those with criminal records. The decision follows a crackdown by Delhi Police on protesters during the 'Chalo Sansad' march on July 20, where 2,873 people were identified through CCTV footage. Of these, nearly 1,000 had criminal antecedents. The government stated that legal protections apply to most protesters but exclude those with criminal histories. The move comes amid ongoing protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party, which called for reforms to the examination system and the resignation of then-education minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protests gained traction after the NEET exam was canceled due to alleged misconduct.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the Delhi government's decision to halt legal action against protesters, emphasizing the exclusion of those with criminal records. While the issue of legal action against protesters is politically charged, the article maintains a balanced tone by quoting official statements and,

Why factuality (70): The article discusses the Supreme Court's request for the Centre to preserve the RAF ammunition log, which is relevant but not directly related to the main event covered in the primary source. It lacks detailed alignment with the primary source's focus on the CJP protests and legal actions.

Why objectivity (65): The tone leans towards reporting on judicial actions rather than remaining neutral on the broader protest situation, introducing a subtle bias.

The Print logoThe PrintIndependentProgressiveFactual 50Objective 6013 days ago
neet protest Archives

The article titled 'neet protest Archives' by The Print appears to focus on historical records or documentation related to protests involving NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). However, the provided text is extremely brief and lacks detailed information about the specific protests, their causes, participants, or outcomes. The article likely serves as an archive or reference point for past demonstrations linked to NEET communities, but without further content, it is difficult to assess the full scope or significance of the event.

Bias read (Progressive): While the article does not explicitly take a stance, the focus on NEET protests suggests a concern with social inclusion and youth marginalization, which aligns with progressive or leftist perspectives. The lack of balanced reporting or mention of opposing viewpoints may indicate a left-leaning bias

Why factuality (50): The article serves as an archive page for NEET-related protests, offering limited specific information. It does not reference the primary source document and appears to be a compilation of past articles rather than original reporting.

Why objectivity (60): The article is neutral in tone, functioning primarily as an index or directory of related content. It does not present any particular viewpoint or commentary on the events themselves.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories