Sikar | The family of NEET student Pradeep Mahich, who died by suicide in Sikar after the NEET exam cancellation, met Rahul Gandhi in Delhi, but the presence of a known history-sheeter during the meeting has now sparked political controversy.

The family reportedly met Rahul Gandhi for nearly 30 minutes, and among those accompanying them was Rajesh Joya, a listed history-sheeter from Sikar Kotwali police station limits. Rajesh Joya reportedly has 14 criminal cases registered against him, including murder, assault, and obstruction of government work. His name has also been linked to gangster Rohit Godara’s gang in the past, making the meeting a major talking point in political circles. During the interaction, Rahul Gandhi placed his hand on Pradeep’s sister Babita’s head and said, “She is my sister too,” assuring the family that justice would be ensured even if his party is not currently in power.

NSUI national president Vinod Jakhad later clarified that the family had introduced those accompanying them as relatives, and their only objective was to support the grieving family in their fight for justice. Pradeep Mahich, a resident of Jhunjhunu, had allegedly died by suicide on May 15 after being deeply distressed over the cancellation of the NEET examination. His family claimed he was expecting more than 650 marks in his third attempt and was mentally shattered by the cancellation.