Question paper leaks a national crisis, says Kerala Minister; Congress to stage youth protest on August 1

Published 19 July 2026 · politics

Minister for Electricity Sunny Joseph on Sunday (July 19, 2026) alleged that repeated question paper leaks in competitive examinations across the country had become a

Minister for Electricity Sunny Joseph on Sunday (July 19, 2026) alleged that repeated question paper leaks in competitive examinations across the country had become a serious national concern, accusing the Union government of failing to bring those responsible to justice. Addressing a press conference in Kannur, Mr. Joseph said more than 152 question paper leaks had been reported across the country affecting over 7.5 crore candidates. He alleged that the NEET question paper was sold for ₹40 lakh, adding that the scandals had driven several aspirants to suicide. The Congress had already demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, he added.

Joseph said the Congress, along with its youth and student organisations, would organise a major protest in front of Lok Bhavan on August 1 as part of a nationwide campaign led by Rahul Gandhi against examination malpractices. The Minister alleged that Kerala too was witnessing similar irregularities in recruitment examinations, and criticised the Opposition for objecting to the government’s decision to investigate alleged irregularities in Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) examinations. On the State’s power situation, Mr. Joseph said the arrangements made to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the World Cup telecast were appropriate. He said the present power shortage was caused by reduced rainfall and the lack of adequate daytime power storage facilities, and not by a change in government or the Electricity Minister.

Responding to criticism from former Electricity Minister M.M. Mani, Mr. Joseph said power cuts had occurred during Mr. Mani’s tenure as well as under Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty. He remarked that he had no desire to become a “disciple of Mani“ and said the crisis stemmed from climatic conditions. He also alleged that the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) should instead protest against those who had cancelled long-term power purchase agreements. On the Kerala Students’ Union (KSU), Mr. Joseph said the organisation should remain united and raise its concerns within the party. He said KSU leaders had conveyed certain issues to him and that these had been brought to the attention of the Chief Minister.

Referring to the controversy over the appointment of government pleaders, Mr. Joseph said policy decisions, including pleader appointments, were taken by the Chief Minister after consultation with him and were not discussed in any other committees.