Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 25: The political deadlock over the NEET paper leak is set to face a crucial test on Monday as the Centre is expected to introduce a tougher anti-paper leak Bill in Parliament, while the Opposition has maintained that no discussion on the issue can begin unless Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan steps down.

The first week of the Monsoon Session was completely disrupted due to repeated protests by the Opposition over the NEET paper leak and the alleged police action against students protesting in Delhi.

The proposed legislation, approved by the Union Cabinet on Friday, aims to strengthen the provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a video message, said the government would introduce and seek to pass the Bill at the earliest during the second week of the Monsoon Session.

Although the INDIA bloc has sought comprehensive reforms in the examination system, Opposition parties insist that the government cannot avoid fixing accountability for the alleged irregularities. They have reiterated that any discussion on the NEET paper leak should take place only after Dharmendra Pradhan resigns from his post.

A senior Opposition leader said the alliance would closely monitor the government's approach before deciding its floor strategy.

The INDIA bloc, which holds meetings before each day's proceedings to finalise its strategy, has so far remained united on the issue. Along with Pradhan's resignation, the Opposition is also demanding action against those responsible for the alleged police crackdown on students protesting in Delhi on July 20.