JEE Candidates Miss Exam Amid Deputy CM Convoy Chaos: Probe Ordered

A traffic-related controversy in Visakhapatnam has sparked public outrage after over 25 students reportedly missed their JEE Main 2025 exam on April 7, allegedly due to disruptions caused by Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s convoy. The incident occurred near the ION Digital Zone in Pendurthi, where the morning shift of the national-level engineering entrance exam was scheduled.

Parents claimed that traffic restrictions for the Deputy CM’s convoy delayed their children’s arrival at the exam center. One parent stated that they were stuck in traffic at NAD Junction at 7:50 AM and took 42 minutes to reach the venue, arriving too late for entry, which closed at 8:30 AM. “We pleaded repeatedly but were not allowed in,” said a parent, adding that nearly 30 students were affected.

The Visakhapatnam Police denied any connection between the convoy and the late arrivals. In a statement, officials clarified that the Deputy CM’s convoy passed through the area at 8:41 AM—well after entry gates had closed. They also emphasized that no roads were blocked before 8:30 AM and noted that absentee numbers for Monday’s exam were lower than previous days of Session 2.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan responded to the allegations by ordering an inquiry into the matter. His office directed Visakhapatnam police to investigate traffic conditions on student routes, the duration of any stoppages for the convoy, and whether service roads were regulated. “The Deputy CM has instructed officials to minimize disruptions during his tours,” read an official statement from his office.

The incident has reignited concerns about VIP movements affecting public activities, especially during critical exams. As affected families urge the National Testing Agency (NTA) to consider holding a special re-exam, investigations are underway to determine if traffic control measures contributed to students missing their exam.