Why Protests When You Can Study? – NEET Topper Panshul Bansal
NEET-UG 2026 All India Rank 2 holder Panshul Bansal has said he chose to focus on preparing for the re-examination instead of joining protests after the original entrance test was cancelled over the paper leak.
Panshul Bansal NEET Success
Bansal secured 715 out of 720 marks and a 99.9999 percentile in the NEET-UG re-examination. His performance placed him second nationally under the applicable tie-breaking rules.
He had scored 706 marks in the cancelled examination. Although initially disappointed by the decision to hold the test again, Bansal said he eventually viewed the additional preparation period as an opportunity to improve his result and strengthen his chances of entering a preferred medical college.
The Faridabad student had also secured a 99.5 percentile in the JEE Main 2026 examination.
NEET Topper Avoided Protests
In an interview with NDTV, Bansal said he decided against participating in demonstrations over the paper leak because he believed his time could be used more effectively for studying.
He maintained his preparation routine and attempted to avoid negativity surrounding the cancellation. His family encouraged him to use the additional time constructively rather than remain disappointed about having to appear for another examination.
Bansal subsequently improved his score by nine marks in the re-examination.
NEET Protest Debate Continues
Bansal’s remarks reflect his personal response to the controversy and do not address the broader demands raised by protesting students. Demonstrators have sought accountability for the paper leak, reforms to protect examination integrity and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Following the announcement of the results, Bansal met Pradhan and was felicitated for his performance. The government has said it is willing to discuss the NEET controversy in Parliament, while Opposition parties continue to demand political accountability.
