Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday he was prepared for a complete discussion on protests against the NEET paper leak. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju added that the government would extend the allotted time for such a debate if needed.
Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi rejected the proposal. He said students sought direct answers on alleged police actions against demonstrators rather than any address from Mr. Shah.
The monsoon session, set to conclude on Thursday, has seen limited proceedings. Opposition members have pressed for Mr. Shah to address claims of excessive force used against NEET protesters on July 20.
Speaking outside the Lok Sabha, Mr. Shah noted he has attended parliament regularly and remains available to respond to questions. He said the government had agreed to fix a time for discussion and urged the opposition to submit a formal request by 3 p.m. He offered to sit through a debate from 3 p.m. that day until the same time the next day.
Mr. Shah later wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla seeking a discussion on the NEET issue after consulting the opposition.
Mr. Gandhi responded that the opposition sought accountability on who ordered actions against students, not a discussion. He questioned whether Mr. Shah had directed the use of force and said the home minister should resign if responsible or if not.
Mr. Rijiju stated the government stood ready to address all points and would adjust the schedule if the opposition agreed to participate.
