Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 22: Union Parliamentary Affairs minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday said the Centre is fully prepared for a discussion on the NEET paper leak issue in Parliament and urged all political parties, particularly the Opposition, to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to finalise the date, duration and procedural rule for the debate without further delay.
Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Rijiju reiterated that the government has been willing from the outset to discuss any issue concerning the country and its youth.
"The government has made it clear in Parliament today that it is completely prepared to discuss the NEET paper leak and every issue connected with it. We have maintained from the very beginning that we are ready to debate any matter that serves the interests of the nation and the country's youth," he said.
Rijiju stressed that parliamentary discussions must follow established procedures and be conducted under the appropriate rules rather than through protests outside the House.
"There is a well-defined process for holding discussions in Parliament. Instead of taking issues to the streets and creating disruptions, there should be a constructive debate in the House. The government wants a comprehensive discussion on the NEET paper leak so that the country is informed about the measures taken to address the issue," he said.
The minister added that the proposed debate would also cover developments following the alleged paper leak, including action taken against those arrested in connection with the case.
He said the government wants Parliament to be informed about the progress of the investigation and the steps initiated to strengthen the examination system.
Rijiju appealed to all political parties to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and collectively decide under which parliamentary rule the discussion should take place, along with its timing and duration.
"We are requesting all parties to meet the Speaker and arrive at a consensus on the date, the rule under which the discussion will be held, and the time allotted for it. The government is ready to listen to concerns and present its response before the nation," he said.
He also emphasised the need for a meaningful debate on broader initiatives being undertaken for the welfare of students and young people across the country.
Renewing his appeal to the Opposition, Rijiju said the government had already given its formal consent for the discussion and urged political parties to avoid further delays.
"All parties have demanded that the NEET paper leak should be the first issue taken up in Parliament. Therefore, without wasting valuable parliamentary time, they should meet the Speaker at the earliest and finalise the date, time and procedural framework for the debate," he said.