New Delhi

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's proposed interaction with students in Kota, alleging that the programme was being organised at a sensitive time when candidates are preparing for the upcoming NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21.

Addressing a press conference at the BJP headquarters, party spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi questioned the timing and location of the Congress event, accusing Gandhi of attempting to gain political mileage at the expense of students.

Trivedi pointed out that the interaction is being held in Kota, a major coaching hub for medical entrance aspirants, just three days before the re-examination. He alleged that such a programme could divert students' attention from their studies during a crucial phase of preparation.

"At a time when students are concentrating on their final preparations, why create an atmosphere that could increase stress or distract them?" Trivedi asked.

Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to meet students in Kota as part of the Congress' campaign focusing on issues such as alleged examination paper leaks, unemployment and concerns faced by young people in the education system.

The Congress has described the programme as the first in a series of student outreach events planned across the country. According to the party, the initiative aims to highlight problems faced by students, including examination irregularities, rising educational expenses and the need for a more transparent recruitment and assessment system.

However, the BJP argued that the timing of the event was inappropriate and accused Gandhi of politicising an issue that directly affects lakhs of students.

Trivedi urged the Congress leader to avoid activities that could potentially disturb students' mental focus before the examination.

"Students should be allowed to utilise these final hours for preparation without unnecessary political interventions. There will be many opportunities for political discussions after the examination is over," he said.

The BJP leader further maintained that political debates should not interfere with the academic interests of students and urged all parties to act responsibly during the examination period.

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The NEET-UG re-test is being conducted after the cancellation of the earlier examination amid allegations of irregularities, making it a highly significant event for medical aspirants across the country.