Afternoon edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The NEET-UG 2026 examination was cancelled by the National Testing Agency (NTA) due to alleged paper leaks, leading to widespread distress among students and political criticism.
Key points
- NEET-UG 2026 examination cancelled by NTA due to alleged paper leak.
- Rajasthan SOG questioned around 15 individuals but did not register an FIR, drawing criticism.
- Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the probe.
- This is the second alleged paper leak of NEET, the first being in 2024.
- Opposition parties have criticized the government's handling of the situation.
Background & context
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a highly competitive entrance examination for undergraduate medical courses in India. Paper leaks and irregularities have been a recurring issue, leading to cancellations and investigations.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The CBI has taken over the investigation into the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Social Justice (Issues relating to education, health, human resource development).
Why in news?
Ahead of a floor test, rebel AIADMK MLAs announced support for Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government, leading to political realignments.
Key points
- Rebel AIADMK leaders have announced support for CM C. Joseph Vijay's TVK government.
- A floor test is scheduled in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.
- Internal leadership disputes within AIADMK are evident.
- The election of a new Speaker, J.C.D. Prabhakar, preceded the floor test.
Background & context
Tamil Nadu politics has historically been dominated by Dravidian parties. The recent election saw the victory of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) led by actor C. Joseph Vijay, potentially signalling a shift in the political landscape.
★ Prelims fact capsule
C. Joseph Vijay is the current Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance, Indian Politics.
Why in news?
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has condemned DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin for his remarks on Sanatana Dharma, accusing the INDIA alliance of 'anti-Hindu' rhetoric and 'vote-bank politics'.
Key points
- BJP has criticized DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin's remarks on Sanatana Dharma.
- BJP alleges 'poisonous politics' and 'anti-Hindu rhetoric' by the DMK and INDIA alliance.
- The remarks have been previously termed 'hate speech' by courts.
- BJP questions the silence of Congress and the new Tamil Nadu CM on the issue.
Background & context
Sanatana Dharma refers to the eternal, inherent, and unchanging qualities that constitute the true nature of all beings. It is often used to refer to the Hindu way of life. Remarks concerning it can be sensitive and politically charged.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Udhayanidhi Stalin is a DMK leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Polity and Governance, Indian Politics, Social Issues.