Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced that the government will set up fast-track courts to ensure quick trials in exam paper leak cases. The announcement came at a time when student protests continue in Delhi over alleged paper leaks and irregularities in recruitment examinations. The issue has also sparked a political confrontation in Parliament, with the Opposition demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

In a social media post, PM Modi, in his first public statement since student-led protests intensified in the national capital. The move came days after thousands of students marched towards Parliament, demanding accountability over repeated exam paper leaks. The protests also drew attention after police action against demonstrators triggered criticism from several opposition leaders.

Addressing the concerns of students, PM Modi said the government remains committed to protecting the interests and future of the country's youth. He announced that fast-track courts would help ensure speedy justice and strict punishment for those involved in paper leak cases. "We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard."

The Prime Minister also said the government has already taken several steps to tackle the issue of paper leaks. He stated that the decision to establish fast-track courts is part of a broader effort to strengthen the system and prevent such incidents in the future. He assured students that the government would act firmly against anyone found responsible for damaging their future.

"Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth... Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared," PM Modi said.

The announcement is being seen as an attempt by the government to directly address growing public anger over repeated examination controversies. It also comes amid increasing pressure from students, opposition parties and civil society groups, who have questioned the government's handling of paper leak cases.

A day before the Prime Minister's statement, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi had alleged that there had been no convictions in the "152 paper leak" cases reported during the last ten years. His remarks added to the ongoing political debate over the issue and intensified criticism of the government.

Soon after PM Modi's announcement, Rahul Gandhi responded sharply on social media. He accused the Prime Minister of failing to protect the education system and held him responsible for the crisis affecting students across the country.

"You are the one who has harmed the future of our youth the most. You allowed and encouraged the total capture and destruction of our education system - and protected every person responsible for it," Rahul tweeted.

Rahul Gandhi also repeated the demands raised by protesting students. He called for the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and urged the government to apologise to students. He also demanded action against those responsible for the alleged assault on protesters during the demonstrations in Delhi.

"The students' demands are clear: sack Dharmendra Pradhan. Apologise to the students. Take action against those who assaulted them," the Leader of the Opposition said.

The political exchange comes after Rahul Gandhi led a flash protest outside the Prime Minister's residence on July 21. Police later detained him along with other Congress leaders. The protest followed the student march towards Parliament on July 20, where demonstrators demanded the resignation of the Education Minister over repeated paper leaks and alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations.

The controversy has now become one of the major political issues in Parliament. Opposition parties continue to press the government for answers on examination reforms and accountability. They have also questioned the Centre over its response to the protests and the handling of student concerns.

The government, on the other hand, has maintained that it is taking firm steps to address the issue. With the announcement of fast-track courts, the Centre has signalled that it intends to speed up legal proceedings against those accused in paper leak cases. The government has also assured students that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to compromise the integrity of examinations or the future of young aspirants.

The issue remains at the centre of national attention as protests continue and political leaders trade sharp accusations over responsibility and accountability. The government's latest announcement is expected to remain a key focus in the ongoing debate over examination reforms and the demand for stronger action against paper leak networks.