'The fear killed her': How an exam scandal in India sparked a student uprising

The tragic suicide of 19-year-old Sheikh Sana, who allegedly took her own life the day before a rescheduled medical entrance exam due to unbearable pressure, has ignited widespread student protests across India. Her family attributes her death to the voiding of the initial National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) exam following a paper leak, and the subsequent uncertainty and stress of preparing for a retake.

Sana's death, alongside those of other students facing similar circumstances, has become a focal point for thousands of young protesters demanding accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The protests, which have been ongoing for about two months, have expanded beyond the immediate exam leak scandal to encompass broader frustrations regarding education, opportunity, and governmental accountability in a country where a significant portion of the population is under 35.

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The fear killed her. The fear of re-NEET.

In response to the escalating protests, India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Saturday. The NEET exam, taken by over 2 million students in May, was canceled and rescheduled after investigations revealed a scheme involving teachers and agents from private tuition centers leaking the paper for large sums. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested 13 suspects in connection with the leaks.

Prime Minister Modi acknowledged the pain caused by the paper leaks, promising strict action and fast-track trials for those responsible. However, student protesters, including opposition lawmakers who disrupted parliament, continue to demand greater transparency and action. Police in Rajasthan, Telangana, and Gujarat have registered the deaths of Sana and two other students as suicides, though the reasons remain under investigation.

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I know that paper leaks are not an ordinary issue. And for millions of students and their guardians, this is painful.