India, July 26 -- Reforms are essential, but honest students must not bear stigma of systemic failures.

Reforming India's education system is both necessary and overdue. Persistent irregularities, administrative lapses, student unrest and efforts to improve the system all point to the urgent need for sweeping changes to outdated rules and procedures. Action against those responsible for examination malpractice, paper leaks and corruption-whether criminals, officials or even ministers-must continue without hesitation.

However, the recent protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar over examination paper leaks have also produced a worrying narrative. Alongside political leaders led by Rahul Gandhi and his party colleagues, some prominent experts, w...