Student protests have erupted nationwide following allegations of irregularities in the NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and other competitive exams, prompting the Opposition to announce plans to raise the issue in Parliament tomorrow. Despite the scheduled discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, the Opposition aims to confront the government over the NEET controversy.
Sources within the government have indicated readiness to address queries during the debate, emphasizing that every necessary action has been initiated. This includes a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe and the formation of a special committee to investigate the matter, with an imminent report expected. Stringent measures against cheating and paper leaks are also set to be implemented this session, aimed at fortifying the education system.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is slated to respond to the NEET issue if raised during the parliamentary session, despite facing opposition criticism earlier this week during his oath-taking. President Droupadi Murmu underscored the government’s commitment to a fair investigation in her address to the joint session of Parliament today.
“The opposition is gearing up for an aggressive stance,” remarked senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, highlighting the political implications of the NEET controversy. “The mandate of the Lok Sabha polls represents a significant challenge for the Prime Minister, and the opposition intends to remind him of this daily,” he added.
The decision by the Opposition to prioritize NEET discussions underscores widespread public outcry since the announcement of results on June 4, marked by protests and allegations of malpractice. Today, the Congress student wing NSUI staged a protest at the National Testing Agency (NTA), demanding its closure, while the Youth Congress organized a demonstration near Parliament.
The convergence of NEET results with general election outcomes has provided renewed ammunition for the Opposition to criticize the BJP-led government at the outset of its third term. Rahul Gandhi of the Congress accused BJP-ruled states of becoming hubs of exam malpractice, referencing historical instances like the Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh.
In response, the government pointed fingers at alleged connections between Rashtriya Janata Dal’s Tejashwi Yadav and individuals implicated in Bihar’s recent exam paper leaks, a claim denied by the RJD.
As tensions escalate, all eyes are on Parliament tomorrow, where the NEET issue is expected to dominate discussions, shaping the political landscape in the early stages of the current government’s tenure.