JP Nadda says Govt ready for NEET debate in Parliament, urges Oppn, Rahul Gandhi to shun politics

New Delhi: Union Health Minister JP Nadda has affirmed that the government is fully prepared for an in-depth debate in Parliament regarding the NEET medical entrance exam paper leak and student concerns.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Nadda stated that the NDA government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, takes the issue with the utmost seriousness. However, he cautioned Rahul Gandhi and the Opposition against using the situation to score political points, emphasising that student welfare must take precedence over political games.

Highlighting paper leak incidents across several non-NDA states, Nadda criticised the Opposition’s “selective stance.” He pointed to instances such as the Service Selection Board exam leaks in Jammu and Kashmir, board exam leaks in Himachal Pradesh, JAC paper leaks in Jharkhand, and intermediate exam leaks in Telangana.

Furthermore, he noted paper leaks in Tamil Nadu’s B.Ed exams, West Bengal’s police constable recruitment, Punjab’s Group D tests, PSC exams in Kerala, and PUC board exams in Karnataka. Questioning why the Opposition remains silent on these incidents within UPA-aligned states, Nadda asserted that their approach reflects a desire for political mileage rather than genuine care for student justice.

“Why is Rahul Gandhi so selective?” he asked. Moving past a blame game, Nadda emphasised that Parliament remains the ideal forum for a constructive resolution. He assured that the government is ready for discussions of any duration—whether 12 or 18 hours—as decided by the Business Advisory Committee.

Reaffirming that the government has already engaged with Opposition leaders in a cordial manner and responded to their written queries, Nadda urged all parties to act responsibly, protect the country’s youth, and work together in Parliament to build a foolproof examination system for the future.

The Minister reinforced that the government has consistently maintained an open-door policy, welcoming all constructive suggestions aimed at restoring complete transparency in competitive testing. By inviting Opposition members to submit their concerns in writing, the administration has demonstrated its commitment to addressing procedural flaws directly.

He appealed to leaders across political lines to transcend partisan motives and join hands in Parliament, ensuring that millions of hardworking aspirants receive the justice, clarity, and secure academic environment they rightfully deserve.

On his meeting with activist Sonam Wangchuk—who is currently on a hunger strike and admitted to a private hospital in Delhi —Nadda said he met him to inquire about his health. The Minister stated that he urged Wangchuk to break his fast and come forward to lead the nation’s youth in a positive direction.

Nadda added that Wangchuk has written a letter to the government, which will respond accordingly.

Addressing Monday’s alleged police action against protesting students at Jantar Mantar, Nadda reiterated that the government remains open to discussing all issues.

Meanwhile, regarding demands for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, Nadda maintained that Parliament is the appropriate forum where all matters should be discussed.

IANS