Rahul issues video message, demands Parliament debate on NEET paper leak after protest

NEW DELHI: The leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi issued statement addressing the students and Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Congress party's protest outside PM residence over the NEET paper leak. He shared a video message on X, saying it was his "direct message to the students of India and the Prime Minister." He backed the students and demanded a proper discussion in Lok Sabha on Wednesday during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Parliament "This morning I met the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and told him that it was important that we be allowed to debate what happened to the students. The previous day, the Speaker had said he needed to take permission from the government. But it became very clear to us in the hours that followed that the government had no interest in holding a debate," he said. Continuing his allegations, he added, "So, we took a decision, that we will stage a protest in front of Prime Minister's house and get the students' issues to national attention" Further questioning the govt, he added, "Why is the Indian education system collapsing? Why are papers leaking? Why is education so expensive in India? Why do families have to financially ruin themselves to educate their children? These are legitimate questions, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with asking them." Rahul also alleged that cases were being filed against students and asserted that the entire Opposition stood with them. Reiterating the demands he said, "The students' demands are, firstly, the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan and HM Amit Shah. Secondly, action should be taken against those who have beaten and humiliated the students, and all the cases against the students should be withdrawn. Finally, the entire opposition wants that there should be a debate on this tomorrow in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on this issue. .." Further addressing PM Modi he said, "The entire Opposition stands with the students. We want reforms in the examination and education systems. We will continue to fight for your voice and your future." This comes after Rahul along with Priyanka Gandhi were detained for protesting outside PM residence. They were later released. The Congress leaders tied plastic bands around their hands and raised slogans, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and education minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak.