Why Rahul Gandhi Called PM Modi's Midnight Video 'Pathetic

Noopur Kumari | Jul 24, 2026, 10:00 IST
Students across the country continue to demand stronger action over repeated paper leak incidents. Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's midnight video message, saying it avoided the main concerns raised by students. The Congress leader repeated three demands, including the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister announced that the Union Cabinet would discuss a tougher law against paper leaks before introducing a bill in Parliament. The controversy has reignited the conversation about accountability, education reforms, and restoring faith in competitive examinations.
PM Modi promises 'more strict actions against paper leaks' amid CJP protests
PM Modi promises 'more strict actions against paper leaks' amid CJP protests
Image credit : ANI
The debate over paper leaks has once again sparked a nationwide conversation about trust in India's education system. While the government has promised strict action and a new law to curb exam leaks, many students believe accountability should come before fresh announcements. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has now questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's late-night video message, saying students are looking for concrete action rather than assurances. The issue has turned into a larger discussion about fairness, transparency, and the future of millions of young aspirants.

Why the Midnight Message Sparked Fresh Debate


PM Modi promises 'more strict actions against paper leaks' amid CJP protests
PM Modi promises 'more strict actions against paper leaks' amid CJP protests
Image credit : ANI


Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a late-night video message promising strict action against paper leaks. He said the Union Cabinet would discuss the proposed legislation before introducing a bill in Parliament. While the announcement focused on stronger legal provisions, it also triggered fresh political reactions. Many students and opposition leaders argued that promises alone may not restore confidence unless responsibility is fixed and those linked to the controversy are held accountable.


Rahul Gandhi's Three Demands


"Pathetic midnight video": Rahul Gandhi counters PM Modi's 'more strict action' promise as CJP protests continue
"Pathetic midnight video": Rahul Gandhi counters PM Modi's 'more strict action' promise as CJP protests continue
Image credit : ANI


Rahul Gandhi criticised the Prime Minister's message, saying students deserve action instead of speeches. In his post on X, he repeated three demands. He asked the government to remove Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, take action against those accused of using force on protesting students, and issue an apology. According to Gandhi, these steps are necessary to rebuild trust among young people preparing for competitive examinations.

Government's Plan to Tackle Paper Leaks

The government has announced that it plans to introduce a new bill in Parliament with stronger provisions against paper leaks. Prime Minister Modi said the proposed law would include strict penalties for those involved in leaking question papers and manipulating examinations. The Cabinet is expected to finalise the draft before it is presented during the Monsoon Session. The move is aimed at protecting the integrity of competitive exams.

Why Students Want Accountability

For many students, the issue is not limited to passing a new law. They believe repeated paper leak incidents have affected their careers, preparation, and confidence in the examination system. Aspirants argue that accountability should extend beyond legal reforms and include identifying those responsible for administrative failures. Their demand reflects a broader concern about fairness and equal opportunities in highly competitive examinations.

The Link With Nationwide Protests

The discussion around paper leaks gained further attention after activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike. The protest highlighted concerns over education reforms and accountability, with demands overlapping with those raised by opposition leaders. Student organisations and activists continue to call for transparent investigations, better examination security, and stronger institutional responsibility to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Can a New Law Restore Confidence?

A stronger law may help create stricter punishment for those involved in exam fraud, but rebuilding trust will require more than legal changes. Students expect secure examination systems, transparent investigations, and timely action whenever irregularities occur. Education experts also believe that long-term reforms, improved technology, and stronger monitoring mechanisms will be essential if the government wants to prevent future paper leak controversies.

The Bigger Question Before India's Education System

The current debate goes beyond politics and focuses on the future of millions of students. Every paper leak raises questions about equal opportunity, merit, and confidence in public examinations. Whether through new legislation, administrative reforms, or stronger accountability, the ultimate challenge is to ensure that hardworking students can compete in a system they believe is fair, transparent, and free from manipulation.

Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP.

Read More

Latest Stories