In a dramatic session on Friday, the Congress-led INDIA bloc and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance clashed in the Lok Sabha over the contentious NEET exam issues. The opposition demanded an immediate debate, calling for the suspension of all other legislative business, which led to a tumultuous atmosphere in the Parliament. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla ultimately adjourned the House until Monday amid the uproar.
Congress MPs expressed their frustration, particularly highlighting repeated instances of paper leaks affecting the NEET exam, with Haryana being the most affected state. The opposition accused Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan of evading responsibility for the ongoing issue. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi claimed his microphone was turned off during his attempt to raise the matter in the House, intensifying the opposition’s anger and contributing to the chaotic scenes.
“This is about the future of our youth, which is being jeopardized by continuous paper leaks. When we brought up this critical issue, the microphone was switched off. If the Leader of the Opposition’s mic is turned off, naturally, other opposition MPs will react strongly, as they did today,” said Gandhi. He emphasized the need for an immediate discussion on the NEET issue, urging the government to prioritize this matter over other scheduled business.
On Friday morning, the Congress moved adjournment motions in both Houses, seeking to halt other legislative proceedings to discuss the NEET controversy. However, Speaker Om Birla declined these motions, stating that the House was set to discuss the Motion of Thanks on President Draupadi Murmu’s address. This refusal led to a significant uproar from the opposition benches.
In response to the adjournment, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticized the Congress for disrupting the House’s functioning. “The government has always been open to discussion on any issue. However, the Congress party’s tendency to obstruct the proceedings of the House is not acceptable. I condemn this behaviour and appeal for a more constructive approach,” Rijiju remarked.
Rahul Gandhi reiterated the opposition’s call for a respectful and thorough discussion on the NEET issue. “All opposition leaders unanimously agreed that we need a debate on NEET today. This is a crucial matter for the youth, and we should address it respectfully. I urge the Prime Minister to join this discussion, as it concerns the future of our students. Parliament should send a message that both the government and the opposition are united in addressing the students’ concerns,” Gandhi stated before entering the Parliament. As the NEET controversy continues to simmer, the demand for accountability and a comprehensive debate on the issue remains a significant point of contention between the opposition and the ruling government.
