Rahul Gandhi Says He Is 'Ready to Take Many More' After Detention During NEET Protest (Video)

Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said he was "used to getting punched" and was prepared to "take many more" after being detained during protests over the alleged NEET-UG examination irregularities. Gandhi made the remarks while addressing student protesters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, reaffirming his support for their demands and accusing the government of failing to address concerns over the examination system.

Rahul Gandhi Defends Participation in Protest

Speaking after his release, Gandhi said he would continue to stand with students despite the police action against opposition leaders during the demonstrations. "I am used to getting punched. I am ready to take many more," he said, adding that the movement was about the future of young people and deserved the support of political leaders. He reiterated that the protests were aimed at seeking accountability and reforms in the conduct of competitive examinations. Rahul Gandhi Detained Outside PM Modi Residence During Protest Over Police Action Against Students (Video).

Rahul Gandhi Speaks about NEET Protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi

Opposition Targets Government Over NEET

Gandhi also criticised the Centre over the alleged NEET paper leak controversy, claiming repeated examination irregularities had undermined students' trust in the system. He urged the government to take responsibility and demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The Congress has argued that the government must provide a transparent account of the alleged lapses and implement reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future. 'Stop This Nonsense of Thrashing Students': Rahul Gandhi Demands PM Modi's Apology Over Police Crackdown.

Detention During Protest

Rahul Gandhi, along with several Congress leaders including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, was briefly detained on Tuesday after attempting to march towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in support of the student movement. Police had stopped the march citing security restrictions in the high-security zone, leading to the detention of several opposition leaders before they were later released.

Protests Continue Across the Country

The NEET-related protests have expanded beyond Delhi, with demonstrations taking place in several cities. Student groups have demanded reforms in the examination system, action against those responsible for the alleged irregularities, and greater transparency in the conduct of national-level entrance exams. The protests have also received support from opposition parties and public figures, increasing political pressure on the government during the ongoing Parliament session.

Government Agrees to Parliamentary Discussion

Amid mounting political pressure, the Centre has said it is ready for a discussion on the NEET issue in Parliament. However, opposition parties have continued to demand a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and have reiterated their call for the Education Minister's resignation. The issue has repeatedly disrupted proceedings in both Houses of Parliament, reflecting the growing political significance of the controversy.

The nationwide protests began after allegations of irregularities in the NEET-UG examination triggered widespread outrage among students and opposition parties. Demonstrations have since evolved into a broader movement demanding examination reforms, accountability, and action over the alleged paper leak.

Rahul Gandhi has emerged as one of the prominent political leaders backing the protests, maintaining that students' concerns should be addressed through dialogue and systemic reforms rather than police action.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 22, 2026 07:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).