Telangana Schools Shut July 24 Over NEET Paper Leak Protest

Multiple student organizations in Telangana have announced a statewide shutdown of schools and colleges on July 24 to protest the NEET-UG 2026 examination irregularities and paper leaks. The joint forum, including SFI, AISF, NSUI, and other groups, is demanding the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the complete dismantling of the National Testing Agency.

Why students are protesting the NEET exam

The original NEET-UG exam held on May 3 was cancelled after allegations of a paper leak. A re-examination took place on June 21 under tighter security, yet protests have continued nationwide. Student leaders allege repeated examination failures and paper leaks have pushed India’s education system into crisis, with the National Testing Agency failing to maintain exam integrity.

What the July 24 bandh demands

Student organizations are calling for four key demands: the immediate resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, complete abolition of the National Testing Agency, strict action against those responsible for the alleged police lathi charge on students in Delhi, and protection of students’ right to peaceful protest. They also demand the Centre withdraw the proposed VBSA Bill, alleging it undermines education system autonomy.

Political support and nationwide momentum

The bandh is being organized in solidarity with students protesting across India and in support of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who was detained by Delhi Police on July 21 during a sit-in near Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence demanding accountability over the NEET crisis. Student leaders representing AISF, SFI, NSUI, and PDSU held a press conference on July 22 urging all government and private institutions, teachers, parents, and citizens to support the shutdown.

Gig workers’ parallel strike adds pressure on state government

On the same day, a separate statewide flash strike by gig and platform workers disrupted services across Hyderabad, affecting food delivery, cab services, and goods transport. Workers demanded a welfare board, revision of rate cards, and enforcement of Motor Vehicles Act guidelines, with unions warning of an indefinite strike from August 8 if demands remain unmet. A cab ride that normally costs Rs 150 surged to Rs 600 during the strike.

Final Thoughts

The July 24 bandh represents a coordinated student movement across two states demanding systemic accountability for examination failures. With multiple student organizations united and political backing from opposition leaders, the shutdown is expected to affect schools and colleges statewide, signaling growing pressure on the central government to address education sector governance.

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