Lok Sabha Adjourns Again Amid Opposition Protests Over NEET Paper Leak

The Lok Sabha has been adjourned for the fifth consecutive day as opposition members persist in their calls for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to the NEET paper leak controversy. Despite the government's appeals for a debate, protests continue to disrupt proceedings. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju has urged the opposition to engage in discussions, while the government plans to introduce new legislation to combat examination malpractice. The ongoing turmoil has prevented the completion of Question Hour during the Monsoon Session, which is set to conclude on August 13. The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm on their positions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 24, 2026, 16:52 IST

Ongoing Disruptions in Lok Sabha

A file image of Lok Sabha session (Photo:PTI)

New Delhi, July 24: For the fifth consecutive day, Lok Sabha proceedings were suspended as opposition members continued to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in light of the NEET paper leak scandal. The government, on the other hand, urged the opposition to engage in a discussion regarding the matter.

After reconvening at noon following an earlier adjournment, the House was once again disrupted by slogans from Congress and other opposition parties, leading to another suspension until Monday.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju called on the opposition to join the debate, emphasizing that the government had made multiple attempts to facilitate discussions in Parliament.

Rijiju directed his comments towards Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, noting that several opposition MPs were open to discussing the issue and encouraged Gandhi to convince his colleagues to allow the proceedings to move forward.

He stated, "Creating excuses and imposing conditions before a debate will convey a negative message to the nation."

Additionally, Rijiju referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's prior commitment to introduce a stringent anti-paper leak law and establish fast-track courts to expedite trials related to examination misconduct.

He also mentioned that activist Sonam Wangchuk had concluded his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the government.

The minister indicated that the Union Cabinet was expected to make a decision regarding the proposed anti-paper leak legislation on Friday, which would then be presented in Parliament the following week.

Despite this, the opposition remained steadfast in their demand for Pradhan's resignation, chanting "Istifa Do" within the House.

Rahul Gandhi attempted to speak during the session, but the Chair, led by Jagdambika Pal, informed him that he would have the opportunity to address the House after ministers presented parliamentary documents.

However, ongoing protests led to the House being adjourned once more, preventing Gandhi from speaking.

Earlier, Speaker Om Birla honored the armed forces in anticipation of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, which is set to be commemorated on Sunday.

As opposition members resumed their protests shortly after the House reconvened, Birla reminded them that he had already promised a discussion on paper leaks in line with parliamentary procedures. He also highlighted the importance of Question Hour as a vital tool for holding the government accountable and urged members not to disrupt the proceedings.

Due to continuous disruptions over the NEET paper leak issue, Question Hour has not been able to proceed as scheduled during any of the five sitting days of the Monsoon Session thus far. The session is slated to conclude on August 13.