Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday urged the Opposition to allow a full-fledged discussion on the NEET controversy without placing preconditions, asserting that the government is prepared for a comprehensive debate in both Houses of Parliament.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Rijiju said there had been broad political consensus across parties, including the ruling NDA, on discussing the NEET issue in Parliament. However, he accused the Congress of delaying the process by linking the debate to specific demands.
“We had expected the Leader of the Opposition to coordinate with all political parties and help ensure a constructive discussion. Instead, the Congress is imposing conditions,” Rijiju said, appealing to Opposition members to allow Parliament to function.
The minister maintained that the alleged examination irregularities surrounding NEET should be treated as a national concern rather than a political issue. He stressed that Parliament remains the most appropriate forum to deliberate on the matter and formulate solutions that safeguard the interests of students.
Rijiju said the government was fully prepared to hold a detailed discussion on every aspect of the issue and urged all political parties to participate in the debate without attaching preconditions.
Referring to the Centre’s response to examination-related irregularities, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already announced stringent measures, including the establishment of fast-track courts to ensure swift trials and strict punishment for those found guilty in paper leak cases.
The minister reiterated that the government’s priority is to protect students and strengthen the integrity of the examination system. He called upon the Opposition to cooperate so that Parliament could discuss the issue meaningfully and arrive at solutions in the interest of students and the nation.
