“If looking for excuses to not have discussion on NEET, then it is not right”: Kiren Rijiju targets Oppn in RS

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Tuesday reiterated in Parliament that it is prepared to hold a discussion on the NEET paper leak case and all related issues, with Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stating that the government remains ready to debate the matter under parliamentary rules.Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, as quoted by ANI, during the Monsoon Session, Rijiju said the government has consistently expressed its willingness to discuss the issue since the beginning of the session. His remarks came amid continued disruptions in the Upper House over the Opposition’s demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.Government reiterates readiness for discussionAddressing the House, Rijiju said, “The government said in Parliament today that we are ready to discuss the NEET paper leak case and all related matters connected to it. The government is always ready to discuss issues concerning the country and the youth.”He added, “A system has been established for discussions inside Parliament; the discussion should be meaningful and should take place within the rules.”The minister also said the government would place details related to the issue before Parliament. “The government will also provide details of all incidents that occurred after the NEET paper leak in the House and inform the country,” he said.Rijiju criticises Opposition over debateRijiju said the government had communicated its willingness to discuss the issue with Congress leaders as well as leaders of other political parties.“I would like to present the side of the Govt in the House. Since day one of the Monsoon session, the Govt has been saying that we are ready to have a discussion on all important issues. We are ready for a discussion on NEET exam paper leak since the beginning. We are ready even now,” he said.He further stated, “We have said this to the Congress leaders as well as leaders of other parties that the Govt is ready for a discussion but how the discussion is to be taken up has to be decided after meeting with everyone under the chairmanship of the Chair.”Referring to the Opposition’s stand, Rijiju said, “If you are looking for excuses to not have a discussion, then it is not right.”He also said, “Our Govt is ready to have a discussion on NEET exam and related matters for the future of the youth. It is our responsibility to tell the nation whatever steps have been taken by the Govt.”Opposition maintains demandThe minister’s remarks came after the Rajya Sabha witnessed disruptions during the Monsoon Session. Congress President and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge reiterated that the Opposition would not participate in a discussion on NEET unless Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned. Following the protests, the proceedings of the House were adjourned until 3 pm.