Kiren Rijiju on NEET Debate: Opposition Should Allow Parliament to Function, Says Union Minister

Kiren Rijiju on NEET Debate took centre stage on Friday as the Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister appealed to Opposition parties to end the parliamentary deadlock and participate in a structured discussion on the alleged NEET paper leak issue. Rijiju said Parliament is the appropriate forum to debate matters concerning students and accused the Opposition of preventing meaningful discussions by repeatedly disrupting proceedings.
His remarks came amid continued disruptions in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha during the ongoing Monsoon Session, where the Opposition has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged examination paper leak controversy.

Kiren Rijiju Calls for Constructive Debate
Addressing reporters, Kiren Rijiju said the government remains fully prepared for a comprehensive discussion on the NEET paper leak issue if Parliament is allowed to function normally.
He stressed that Parliament is the country's highest democratic institution and should be used to debate important national issues, including concerns related to students and examination reforms.

According to Rijiju, all political parties would have sufficient opportunity to express their views once the debate begins, but repeated disruptions are preventing any meaningful discussion from taking place.

Defends PM Modi's Statement on NEET
The Union Minister also defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent video message addressing the NEET controversy.

Rijiju criticised the Congress for questioning the timing of the Prime Minister's remarks, saying the Opposition had earlier demanded that the Prime Minister speak on the issue but later criticised him after he did so.

He argued that the focus should remain on finding solutions for students rather than creating unnecessary political controversies.

According to Rijiju, the Prime Minister clearly outlined the government's commitment to protecting students' interests and ensuring strict action against those responsible for examination irregularities.

"Discussion Must Happen Inside Parliament"
Kiren Rijiju reiterated that every political party has the right to express its opinion during parliamentary debates.

He said if Opposition members prevent discussions before they even begin, Parliament cannot perform its constitutional role.

The minister urged Opposition MPs to participate in the debate instead of continuing protests and repeated adjournments.

He maintained that the government is ready to answer questions and explain its position regarding the alleged NEET paper leak and related developments.

Parliament Continues to Face 

The Monsoon Session has witnessed repeated disruptions since it began, with both Houses frequently adjourned due to protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and police action against student demonstrators.

Opposition parties have demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and have sought a detailed discussion on the issue.
The government, however, has repeatedly stated that it is willing to hold a debate but has accused the Opposition of attaching preconditions that are preventing Parliament from functioning smoothly.

Government Highlights Measures Taken on Paper Leak
The Centre has maintained that it has already initiated several steps to address examination-related irregularities.

Among the measures announced are:
Fast-track courts for paper leak cases
The government has decided to establish dedicated fast-track courts to ensure speedy investigation and prosecution of those involved in examination fraud.

Proposed amendments to the Public Examinations Act
The Centre is also preparing amendments to strengthen the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, with stricter punishments, including longer prison terms and heavier financial penalties for individuals and organisations involved in paper leaks.
Political Standoff Continues

Despite the government's repeated assurances that it is ready for a debate, the Opposition has continue to insist that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan must resign before any discussion can take place.

The disagreement has resulted in multiple adjournments and has delayed consideration of several important Bills listed for the Monsoon Session.

Political observers believe that unless both sides soften their positions, Parliament may continue to witness disruptions in the coming days.

Kiren Rijiju on NEET Debate reflects the government's continued appeal for a parliamentary discussion on the alleged paper leak controversy. While the Centre says Parliament is the appropriate platform to address students' concerns and explain the government's response, the Opposition remains firm on its demand for ministerial accountability before participating in any debate. As the political impasse continues, the NEET issue remains one of the most significant topics in the ongoing Monsoon Session.