Opposition Protests Over NEET Leak Mark Start of Monsoon Session

The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on Monday with opposition parties staging protests both inside and outside the legislative chambers, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG question paper leak.

As protesters made their way to Parliament, the gates were temporarily closed in the afternoon. Security was heightened, with personnel in riot gear deployed and mobile phone jammers activated in the area, extending an internet shutdown to Parliament House.

Riot control vehicles were parked outside the premises, and the sound of tear gas shells being fired a few hundred metres away could be heard inside, including when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was leaving the House. Sources said Modi, who was in the Lok Sabha when proceedings began, was present in the premises when there was a commotion from the Rail Bhawan side, which leads to the South Utility Gate of Parliament.

The protests were led by the opposition party, which has been demanding a thorough investigation into the NEET-UG paper leak and accountability from the Education Ministry. The issue has sparked widespread concern among students and parents, with many calling for reforms in the examination system.

The government has not yet responded to the demand for resignation, but has assured that an inquiry is underway. Both houses of Parliament witnessed disruptions as opposition members raised slogans and displayed placards, forcing adjournments.

The Monsoon Session is scheduled to continue with several key legislative agendas, including discussions on the economy and national security.