Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, in an editorial published in the party mouthpiece Saamana, launched a scathing attack on the Maharashtra government over the alleged Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak, accusing the ruling
Mahayuti government of failing to protect the future of lakhs of aspiring teachers.
The editorial claimed that Maharashtra has become the epicentre of examination paper leaks in the country, referring to the recent NEET paper leak and the latest TET examination controversy. It is alleged that the repeated incidents expose deep-rooted corruption, administrative failure and a collapse of the state's education system.
According to the editorial, the TET examination, scheduled for June 28, had to be cancelled after the question paper was allegedly leaked a day before the test. It stated that the leak reportedly originated from Bhiwandi in Thane district and described the incident as more than an isolated case, calling it a reflection of systemic failures that have jeopardised the future of thousands of candidates.
Raut questioned Maharashtra Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis' handling of law and order, alleging that the government has failed to curb organised paper leak syndicates operating across the state. The editorial argued that repeated examination leaks have become "normal," comparing them to political defections while claiming that students, unlike politicians, are paying the price with their careers.
The editorial further demanded the resignation of the state's Education Minister, stating that those responsible for safeguarding the examination process have lost the moral right to continue in office. It also claimed Maharashtra requires a full-time Home Minister and alleged that political priorities have overshadowed governance.
Referring to the earlier NEET controversy, the editorial alleged that examination leak syndicates had been active in Pune, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Latur and Nashik, while the latest TET case has brought Bhiwandi into focus. It questioned why repeated paper leak incidents continue to surface in Maharashtra and sought an explanation from the Home Minister.
The editorial also alleged that appointments across educational institutions, including universities and examination authorities, have been politically influenced and held the ruling BJP responsible for repeated examination irregularities.
Calling for the ongoing Maharashtra Legislative Assembly session to address the issue, the editorial urged legislators to halt House proceedings until concrete action is taken to protect students' futures.
Quoting Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who recently said, "Another paper leak, another exam cancelled. This is theft of the youth's future," the editorial echoed the sentiment, alleging that examination leaks amount to the theft of young people's dreams and aspirations.
In its concluding remarks, the editorial accused the central and state governments of neglecting students' interests while focusing on political priorities. It is alleged that Maharashtra's education system has deteriorated to the point where paper leaks occur with impunity, and those responsible rarely face punishment.
