Bengaluru, July 23 -- Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara on Thursday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his response to the NEET paper leak issue, saying the PM "responded very late" and demanded the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Speaking to reporters on PM Modi's tweet on setting up fast-track courts to ensure stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks, Parameshwara said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded very late by saying that an investigation would be conducted. He has said that he stands with the students. If that is the case, Dharmendra Pradhan must be removed from office. Action must be taken against those responsible."

The Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister said the...