New Delhi: The Union government is not expected to remove Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak, despite growing calls from opposition parties and student groups for his resignation. According to a PTI report citing a senior government official, the Centre believes the minister cannot be held personally responsible for the examination controversy.
The official said the government is, however, prepared to positively consider demands for financial assistance to the families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET controversy.
The Centre has also indicated its willingness to hold discussions with protesters led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). While the government is open to dialogue, it hopes there will be flexibility regarding the venue instead of insisting on a specific location for the talks.
The report stated that several high-level meetings have been held on the issue, involving Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Health Minister JP Nadda, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, as the government continues to assess the situation.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, JP Nadda reiterated that the Centre is ready for a detailed discussion on the alleged NEET paper leak in Parliament. He said the government has no objection to the duration or format of the debate, provided it is agreed upon by the Opposition.
“We have always been prepared for a discussion in Parliament. Whether it is for a short duration or an extended debate, the government is ready. The Opposition should stop shifting its position,” Nadda said.
He also stressed that Parliament is the most suitable platform to address the issue and called for cooperation between the government and the Opposition to develop long-term reforms.
“These students represent the future of the nation. It is the collective responsibility of both the government and the Opposition to safeguard their interests. A comprehensive discussion should lead to a concrete policy framework,” he added.
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi renewed his demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, describing it as one of the protesters’ “non-negotiable” conditions.
The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has been leading demonstrations over the alleged NEET examination irregularities since June. During its Parliament march on July 20, protesters attempted to move toward Parliament but were stopped by heavy security arrangements, including multiple barricades, police action, and the use of tear gas. The march was ultimately halted near Parliament Street.
