Education Reform – Kharge Urges PM Modi to Address Parliament on Paper Leak Issue
Education Reform – Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the issue of examination paper leaks directly in Parliament rather than speaking about it through an external public message. His remarks came amid the ongoing debate over the government’s response to alleged irregularities in major competitive examinations and the proposed legislation aimed at preventing future paper leaks.
Kharge Demands Accountability in Parliament
Responding to the Prime Minister’s recent video statement, Kharge argued that Parliament is the appropriate platform for discussing matters of national importance while it is in session. According to him, elected representatives deserve an opportunity to debate the issue openly, allowing concerns from students and opposition parties to be heard on the floor of the House.
In a post shared on X, Kharge said that instead of delivering what he described as a one-sided address outside Parliament, the Prime Minister should present the government’s position before lawmakers. He maintained that Parliament provides the proper constitutional forum for such discussions.
Opposition Seeks Action Against Education Minister
The Congress chief also renewed his demand for the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He urged the government to apologise to students who have been affected by examination controversies and to initiate strict action against those responsible for ordering the use of force against protesting students.
Kharge said that once these concerns are addressed, the opposition would be prepared to participate in a detailed discussion on the country’s education system and measures needed to restore confidence among students and parents.
Government Plans New Legislation
The remarks followed Prime Minister Modi’s video message released on Thursday evening, in which he announced that the Union Cabinet would consider a proposed law dealing with examination paper leaks before it is introduced in Parliament during the coming week.
The Prime Minister said the legislation would include stringent provisions to curb paper leaks and punish those involved in compromising the integrity of competitive examinations. He expressed hope that the proposed Bill would be passed at the earliest after being introduced in Parliament during the Monsoon session.
PM Highlights Government Response
During his address, Modi acknowledged that allegations of paper leaks had caused anxiety for millions of students and their families. He said the government acted promptly after concerns related to the NEET examination emerged more than two months ago.
According to the Prime Minister, investigating agencies identified and arrested those allegedly involved in the case, and the accused are now in custody. He also stated that one of the government’s primary objectives was to ensure that students did not lose an academic year because of the controversy.
Modi added that the administration mobilised available resources to conduct the re-examination, enabling around 22 lakh candidates to appear again without prolonged uncertainty.
Rahul Gandhi Criticises Prime Minister’s Statement
Shortly after the Prime Minister’s video message was released, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi questioned the government’s approach to the issue. He criticised the address for not responding to the opposition’s demand for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Rahul Gandhi also said the government should directly address students’ concerns and provide greater accountability instead of relying on a late-night public message. He argued that students expect clear answers and meaningful action from the Centre regarding examination reforms and the prevention of future paper leaks.
Debate Expected During Monsoon Session
The issue is likely to remain a major point of discussion during the ongoing Monsoon session of Parliament. With the government preparing to introduce fresh legislation and the opposition demanding greater accountability, the debate is expected to focus on strengthening examination security, ensuring transparency in recruitment and entrance tests, and rebuilding public trust in the education system.