Kolkata, India – In a significant development amid ongoing student protests, BJP Member of Parliament Sukanta Majumdar has formally demanded the immediate postponement of the JEE Main examination scheduled in West Bengal. The call comes as thousands of aspirants across the state voice concerns over inadequate preparation time and logistical challenges exacerbated by recent disruptions.
Majumdar, representing the Balurghat constituency, addressed a press conference today, highlighting the unprecedented difficulties faced by students. ‘The JEE Main is a gateway to the future for lakhs of young minds, yet the current circumstances in West Bengal make it impossible for fair conduct,’ he stated emphatically. He pointed to widespread internet outages, transport disruptions, and the lingering impact of Cyclone Remal as key factors compromising student readiness.
The demand gains urgency as the National Testing Agency (NTA) has set the exam dates for late April, leaving many students in a precarious position. Protests have erupted in cities like Kolkata, Siliguri, and Durgapur, with student unions alleging that the state government’s handling of Cyclone Remal recovery has sidelined education priorities. Majumdar urged the Union Education Ministry to intervene, suggesting a two-week deferral to ensure equity.
This isn’t the first time exam schedules have clashed with natural calamities in the region. Last year, similar pleas were raised during floods, but authorities proceeded, leading to widespread criticism. Political analysts note that Majumdar’s move could intensify the BJP’s narrative against the ruling Trinamool Congress, accusing them of neglecting student welfare.
Student leaders have echoed the MP’s sentiments, organizing sit-ins and submitting memorandums to local NTA centers. ‘We’ve lost precious study days to relief work and power cuts. Postponing is the only fair solution,’ said Rahul Sharma, president of a Kolkata-based engineering aspirants’ forum.
As the NTA deliberates, the eyes of West Bengal’s youth are on New Delhi. A decision in favor of postponement could set a precedent for crisis management in competitive exams, while rejection might fuel further unrest. The saga underscores the delicate balance between national exam timelines and regional realities.