The Indian government has signalled its willingness to hold a full discussion in Parliament over the alleged leak of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) examination paper, as nationwide protests over the controversy entered a third consecutive day.
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said on Wednesday that the government was prepared for a comprehensive debate on the issue, responding to mounting demands from opposition parties for greater accountability.
The announcement came as the government prepared for a second meeting within three days with a delegation from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).
Unlike Monday’s discussions, which were held at the residence of Union Minister JP Nadda, the latest meeting will take place at a different venue, although officials have not yet confirmed the location.
The NEET controversy has become one of the most prominent political issues facing the government, prompting widespread demonstrations across parts of the country.
Protesters have continued to gather despite clashes with police earlier this week.
Authorities said that dozens of police officers sustained injuries during Monday’s unrest.
Government sources rejected opposition demands for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, describing the calls as politically motivated.
They argued that the administration responded quickly after allegations of the examination paper leak first emerged.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also addressed the issue, calling for the strongest possible action against anyone found responsible for compromising the integrity of the examination.
Speaking after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Parliamentary Party’s ‘Mangal Milan’ meeting, Kiren Rijiju said the prime minister had urged coalition partners to remain united and to help ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament during the current session.
According to Rijiju, Modi also appealed to opposition parties to cooperate constructively, stressing that while political disagreements are inevitable in a democracy, lawmakers have a shared responsibility to protect the country’s future and safeguard the interests of young people.
The government’s readiness to debate the matter in Parliament comes as pressure continues to grow over the handling of the alleged paper leak, with opposition parties seeking further accountability and assurances over the integrity of India’s competitive examination system.
