Srinagar, May 14 -- Srinagar- Jammu and Kashmir Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo on Thursday called for a transparent investigation into the alleged 'NEET-UG paper leak' incident.

The minister said all those involved in the fraud must face strict punishment, irrespective of their influence or position.

Speaking to reporters, Itoo said the alleged fraud has deeply affected students who worked tirelessly for years to qualify one of the country's most competitive examinations.

"This is unfortunate because children work very hard and put immense effort into qualifying this examination," she said, as per the news agency KNO.

She said any malpractice in such examinations amounts to playing with the future and careers of deserving s...