🔥 Trending PM Modi's Speech and Protester Clashes: What Happened?

On October 1st, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the ongoing protests regarding alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination and other paper leaks. In a self-recorded video shared on X (formerly Twitter) late Thursday night, PM Modi promised "more strict" action against paper leaks and announced that the Union Cabinet would address the issue ⁵⁷. He also assured the public that a strong law against exam paper leaks would be implemented as protests escalated ⁹.

However, the speech drew significant criticism. Actress Dia Mirza expressed her disappointment, stating that the Prime Minister's message lacked empathy, an apology, or acknowledgment of the emotional struggles faced by students, parents, and protesters ¹²⁴. She noted that the speech did not contain "not one word of empathy" for those affected ¹⁴. The opposition also reacted sharply to the "pathetic midnight video," criticizing its timing and content ⁵.

These events occurred amidst the "Cockroach" protests, a Gen Z-led movement that has been challenging Modi's tightly constructed public image through videos and memes ³¹⁰. The protests, which began over a month prior due to leaks in competitive entrance exams for medical colleges and government jobs, have put the Modi administration on the defensive, highlighting growing anger over education, jobs, and governance ⁶⁸¹⁰. The CJP-led protests, which included clashes in Delhi around July 20-21, 2026, have been fueled by student activism, anti-Modi sentiment, and allegations of the NEET-UG paper leak ⁸.