The Opposition INDIA bloc raised concerns over the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) Examination paper leak during a protest in both houses of Parliament on Friday.
Congress leaders alleged that the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, had his microphone turned off when he raised the NEET issue and demanded a discussion on the matter.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan responded by appealing to opposition MPs, urging them not to spread confusion among students. He emphasized the government’s preparedness for discussions while highlighting the importance of maintaining parliamentary traditions and decorum.
“We are committed to holding all responsible parties accountable. The individuals in charge of the NTA have been replaced, with senior officials now overseeing the matter. This is a clear demonstration of the government’s dedication… I urge the opposition not to mislead the students,” Pradhan stated.
Despite the protests, Speaker Om Birla insisted on prioritizing the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to President’s Address in the Lok Sabha session. However, the session adjourned till Monday without addressing the NEET issue.
Opposition claims Rahul Gandhi’s mic was switched off
Congress leaders accused the government of deliberately switching off Rahul Gandhi’s microphone during his speech in Parliament. Congress MP Manickam Tagore stated, “Rahul Gandhi addressed the NEET issue. Who silenced his mic? It appears to be a deliberate attempt by the BJP to avoid discussing the NEET paper leak and NTA’s failures.”
Another Congress MP, Deepender Singh Hooda, criticized Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for evading responsibility in the NEET paper leak issue. He claimed that when the matter was brought up in the House, the microphone was turned off.
Congress MP Manish Tewari expressed disappointment over the lack of discussion on the NEET issue, affecting numerous students due to the paper leak. He emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue along with impending criminal laws set to be implemented.
Tewari stressed the need for discussions on both the NEET issue and impending laws, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary debates being conducted effectively.
Government ready for discussion but…
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reiterated the government’s readiness for discussions but emphasized the need for maintaining parliamentary decorum during debates.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju condemned the Congress party for halting proceedings in the House, preventing meaningful discussions on important issues. He reassured members that the government is always prepared for constructive debates.
Rijiju urged for a more cooperative approach in parliamentary sessions to ensure that discussions can proceed smoothly without interruptions, fostering a more productive legislative environment.
