NEET Paper Leak: Lok Sabha adjourned till Monday as Opposition Demands Pradhan’s Resignation

NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha was adjourned until Monday after repeated disruptions over the NEET paper leak controversy, marking the fifth consecutive day that proceedings were washed out amid demands from the Opposition for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
When the House reconvened at noon following an earlier adjournment, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju appealed to the Opposition to allow a discussion on the issue. Addressing Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Rijiju said the government had repeatedly expressed its willingness to debate the paper leak controversy and urged the Congress leadership to ensure cooperation from its members.
He warned that imposing preconditions for a discussion would send the wrong message to students and the country. Rijiju also recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance of introducing a stringent anti-paper leak law and ensuring fast-track trials for those responsible. He added that the Union Cabinet was expected to consider the proposed legislation on Friday.
Despite the government’s appeal, Congress and other Opposition members continued raising slogans demanding Pradhan’s resignation, forcing repeated interruptions.
Rahul Gandhi sought to speak during the proceedings, but Jagdambika Pal, who was chairing the House, said he would be given an opportunity after ministers completed the laying of parliamentary papers. Before that could happen, persistent protests led to the House being adjourned for the day.
Earlier, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tribute to the armed forces ahead of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, to be observed on Sunday. He also urged members to allow the Question Hour to function, noting that it plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable. However, continuous protests prevented the Question Hour from being completed for the fifth straight sitting.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament is scheduled to continue until August 13.