GUWAHATI: Parliament witnessed continued disruptions for the fifth consecutive day on Friday, July 24, as proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were repeatedly interrupted over the NEET paper leak controversy and the Opposition's demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
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When the Lok Sabha reconvened at noon after an earlier adjournment, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju urged Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi to ensure that his party participates in a discussion on the paper leak issue. Rijiju said the Centre has repeatedly expressed its willingness to hold a debate in Parliament and added that imposing preconditions before such a discussion sends the wrong message to the public.
He also stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured strict action against those involved in paper leak cases, including the introduction of a stringent anti-paper leak law and fast-track trials for the accused. Rijiju informed the House that the proposed legislation is expected to be taken up by the Union Cabinet on Friday. He also noted that activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his hunger strike.
Despite the government's assurance of a debate, Congress and other Opposition members continued their protest, raising slogans demanding Pradhan's resignation.
Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi sought to speak during the proceedings, but the Chair, presided over by Jagdambika Pal, informed him that he would be given an opportunity after ministers tabled official papers. However, amid the ongoing uproar, the House was adjourned for the day until Monday before Gandhi could address the House.
The Lok Sabha has witnessed repeated adjournments over the past five days as Opposition parties continue to protest over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
Earlier in the day, Speaker Om Birla paid tribute to the armed forces ahead of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, which will be observed on Sunday. Soon after, Opposition MPs resumed sloganeering, prompting Birla to remind members that he had already assured a discussion on the paper leak issue under the rules of the House.
