The Monsoon Session of Parliament began with sharp exchanges on Monday as the Opposition raised concerns over the NEET paper leak controversy and protests by students in Delhi. The issue quickly dominated proceedings in the Rajya Sabha, leading to heated arguments between the government and Opposition members before the House was adjourned.
Kharge questions government over NEET controversy
Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Central government of failing students and raised questions over the handling of the NEET paper leak issue. He said the matter was directly linked to the future of lakhs of students and deserved serious attention in Parliament.
While addressing the House, Kharge referred to the protests taking place at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. He claimed that a large number of students had gathered there to demand action over the alleged NEET paper leaks.
According to Kharge, the government should listen to the concerns of students instead of trying to silence them.
Claims of police action against protesters
During his speech, Kharge alleged that police carried out a lathi-charge on the students protesting at Jantar Mantar. He claimed the action was taken under government orders and accused the Centre of using force to suppress dissent.
He told the House that Parliament should focus on issues affecting students because they concern the future of the country’s youth. Kharge said thousands of students had assembled at the protest site and claimed that force was used against them.
He also remarked that government was attempting to silence voices instead of addressing concerns being raised by the protesters.
Heated arguments disrupt the Sabha
Kharge’s remarks triggered strong objections from members of treasury benches. The ruling party disputed his allegations leading to loud protests inside the House.
Members from both the government and Opposition stood up from their seats and shouted slogans.
As the uproar continued, Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan adjourned the House.
Opposition demands reforms in examination system
The Opposition has repeatedly demanded greater accountability in the examination process and has called for reforms to prevent paper leaks. Opposition leaders have also sought transparency in the conduct of competitive examinations and action against those responsible for any irregularities.
Kharge urged the government to hear the voices of protesting students and ensure a transparent examination system that protects the interests of candidates.
Government stands by existing measures
The government has maintained that steps are already being taken to strengthen the examination process. It has said efforts are focused on making exams more transparent while identifying and punishing those found guilty of wrongdoing in paper leak cases.
Delhi Police reject allegations
Meanwhile, Delhi Police denied reports that force was used against protesters at Jantar Mantar.
In a statement posted on X, the police said reports in some sections of the media about violence or detentions during the protest were incorrect. According to Delhi Police, no such incident took place and the demonstration was being handled in a professional manner.