NEET Paper Leak: Government Open to Debate, Opposition Demands Minister's Resignation

The central government on Wednesday expressed its readiness to hold a discussion in the Lok Sabha on the leak of the NEET-UG question paper, an issue that has triggered widespread protests across the country. However, the opposition parties insisted that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan must resign over the matter.

During a brief confrontation in the House before it was adjourned, Congress MP K.C. Venugopal said, “The entire nation is in pain now… the way in which the government brutally dealt with students protesting against Dharmendra Pradhan.” He accused the government of mishandling the situation and demanded accountability.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla intervened and assured the opposition that they would be given an opportunity to speak during the discussion. Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju then responded, saying, “The government is ready to discuss the NEET paper leak issue. If a discussion has to happen, it has to be done under a rule… when the discussion has to happen, its duration and under what rule it has to be done… We are ready for a discussion.”

The NEET-UG paper leak, which came to light earlier this month, has sparked protests by students who demand a fair investigation and action against those responsible. The opposition has been pressing for the resignation of Education Minister Pradhan, accusing him of failing to prevent the leak and of using excessive force against student demonstrators.

The government, however, has defended its handling of the situation, stating that investigations are underway and those found guilty will be punished. The debate on the issue is expected to continue when Parliament reconvenes.