The deadlock over the NEET paper leak issue continued to disrupt Parliament on Thursday, with both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha failing to conduct normal business for the fourth consecutive day. Opposition parties remained firm on their demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan before any discussion on the alleged irregularities in the medical entrance examination, while the government maintained that it was ready for a debate but rejected the Opposition's conditions. According to sources, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju reached out to floor leaders of opposition parties in an effort to resolve the stalemate and ensure the functioning of Parliament.
However, opposition leaders reportedly insisted that Pradhan's resignation must come before any formal discussion takes place. The Opposition has argued that the Education Minister should take responsibility for the controversy surrounding the NEET examination process. At an INDIA bloc meeting held on Thursday morning, opposition parties unanimously decided to continue pressing for Pradhan's resignation as their first demand. They also planned to seek a discussion through an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha and under Rule 267 in the Rajya Sabha to raise concerns over the alleged NEET paper leak and other examination-related issues.
The Lok Sabha proceedings were repeatedly adjourned as opposition MPs raised slogans and demanded accountability from the government. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Opposition of placing "pre-conditions" to avoid a discussion on the issue. He said the government was willing to allow members to express their views and that the debate could continue for an extended period. "The government would also like to put across its point of view on the matter," Rijiju said, adding that opposition members would be given sufficient opportunity to speak during the discussion.
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The government has maintained that it is committed to addressing concerns related to competitive examinations and taking action against anyone found responsible for wrongdoing. The NEET controversy has become a major political issue, with opposition parties alleging lapses in the examination system and demanding greater accountability. The government has defended its handling of the matter, stating that investigations are underway and that strict action will be taken against those involved in any irregularities. The issue has also sparked protests among students and aspirants across the country.
With both sides refusing to compromise on their positions, parliamentary proceedings remain at a standstill. While the government is attempting to bring the Opposition on board for a debate, opposition parties have indicated that they will continue their protest until their demand for Pradhan's resignation is addressed. The continued disruption has delayed legislative work and intensified political tensions during the ongoing parliamentary session.
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