Amidst intensifying attacks by the opposition against the central government over the NEET paper leak and the police crackdown on student protests, the Centre agreed on Wednesday to hold a detailed discussion on the issue in Parliament. However, proceedings in the Lok Sabha were ultimately adjourned as the opposition remained adamant in its demand for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Amidst a massive uproar in the Lok Sabha, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the government is fully prepared for a detailed discussion on the NEET paper leak issue. He said, “Students are our top priority. We want a detailed discussion in Parliament regarding the NEET paper leak.”
However, the opposition demanded a government response not only on the paper leak but also regarding the police’s role in suppressing student protests in Delhi. Additionally, they sought a direct statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Parliament.
Speaking on behalf of the opposition camp, the Samajwadi Party’s Akhilesh Yadav stated that the Prime Minister must explain why he is not addressing the issue of the youth inside Parliament, despite speaking about it outside the House. He alleged that the police had subjected students protesting on the streets of the capital to barbaric treatment at the behest of the government.
Meanwhile, although the government agreed to hold discussions, opposition parties—including the Congress—made it clear that no talks would take place unless Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attempted to initiate the debate, noting that both the ruling and opposition sides were keen to discuss the matter. However, the session ultimately had to be adjourned as the opposition remained adamant in its demand for the Education Minister’s resignation.
Outside Parliament, Kiren Rijiju alleged that the opposition was responsible for delaying the discussion. He claimed that the government was ready to begin the debate immediately, but the opposition prevented it from happening.
Earlier on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly commented on the irregularities in the NEET examination for the first time. He stated that strict action has been taken against those involved in serious offenses like paper leaks and assured that steps would be taken to ensure no one plays with the future of the nation’s youth in the future. The Prime Minister further emphasized that this is not a political issue but a matter of national interest; therefore, the Centre and all state governments must work together.
According to sources, the Prime Minister conveyed a clear message during a meeting with NDA MPs that no student should face injustice. He also emphasized that restoring the confidence of the youth is currently the most important responsibility.
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused the central government of exploiting students and demanded the resignations of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.Delhi Police detained him while he was participating in a protest outside the Prime Minister’s residence. Rahul also demanded a parliamentary discussion, an inquiry into the police assault on students, and a public apology from the Prime Minister.
On the other hand, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched a counter-attack against the Congress and Rahul Gandhi, stating that the government had agreed to a comprehensive discussion in Parliament. However, he alleged that the Congress was exploiting the issue for political campaigning rather than seeking a solution to the students’ problems. He asserted that the opposition’s aim was not to find a resolution but to generate political headlines.
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