Photo Credit: The Hindu
NEW DELHI, JUL 22 (PTI) — Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday shortly after the Centre agreed to hold a detailed discussion on the alleged NEET paper leak issue in the Lower House.
The meeting occurred amid relentless protests by the Opposition, who are demanding Pradhan's immediate resignation over the examination irregularities and the ensuing police crackdown on students.
Earlier in the day, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju informed the Lok Sabha that the government is fully prepared for a comprehensive debate. "The government is ready to discuss the NEET paper leak issue. However, the duration and under which rule the discussion should be held will be decided by the Speaker after meeting with all party floor leaders," Rijiju stated.
Despite the government's assurance, the Opposition, led by Congress MP K.C. Venugopal, remained adamant on an Adjournment Motion, demanding that regular business be suspended. Venugopal reiterated the demand for Pradhan's resignation and the withdrawal of police cases against peacefully protesting students.
Adding to the pressure, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav demanded a direct statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the floor of the House, questioning why the PM addressed the issue outside Parliament but not inside.
With the Opposition continuing their vociferous protests in the Well of the House, Speaker Birla was forced to adjourn the Lok Sabha proceedings until 2 p.m. PTI
Our Final Thoughts
The government's sudden willingness to debate the NEET paper leak indicates mounting pressure, but putting the ball in the Speaker's court regarding the rules buys them time. However, the Opposition is not settling for just a debate—they smell blood in the water. With demands for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and a direct statement from PM Modi echoing in the House, this monsoon session is shaping up to be a relentless battle of attrition.