The Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon on Monday after Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge raised the alleged NEET examination paper leak and the ongoing student protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, demanding that the issue be taken up in the House.
Speaking during the proceedings, Kharge urged the Chair to allow a discussion on what he described as a matter affecting the future of lakhs of students across the country. Referring to the protests outside Parliament, he also alleged that police had used force against demonstrators.
“You have allowed me to present my views regarding this paper leak and the NEET examination scandal. This is a matter concerning students; I am speaking about the futures of lakhs of children. Thousands of students have gathered at Jantar Mantar for this cause. A lathi-charge has taken place there. The government is trying to use force, suppress voices, and drive them away,” Kharge said.
The Congress president’s remarks came as political parties intensified their attack on the Centre over the alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and the handling of protests linked to the issue.
The protest at Jantar Mantar has drawn large crowds of students and activists demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and reforms in the education system. The agitation has also become a key political issue on the opening day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Following the brief exchange over the matter, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned and is scheduled to reconvene at 12 noon. Opposition parties are expected to continue pressing the government for a discussion on the NEET controversy and the developments surrounding the student protests.
