Parliament – Kharge Criticises PM Modi Over Remarks, Raises NEET and Trust Concerns

Parliament – Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday following the Prime Minister’s remarks ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Kharge accused the government of attempting to divert attention from pressing national concerns by engaging in political rhetoric instead of addressing issues that directly affect citizens. He said matters such as the NEET examination controversy and allegations linked to the Ram Mandir Trust deserved greater attention from the country’s leadership.

Kharge Questions Government’s Priorities

Addressing reporters, the Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition argued that the Prime Minister should concentrate on finding practical solutions rather than making political jibes. According to Kharge, the role of the country’s highest elected leader is to reassure citizens during difficult situations and provide clear responses to governance challenges.

He claimed that several unresolved issues continue to trouble the public and maintained that the government must accept responsibility where administrative shortcomings have been identified. Kharge also criticised what he described as an increasing tendency to use political exchanges to shift the focus away from matters affecting ordinary people.

NEET Issue Remains a Major Concern

Referring to the controversy surrounding the NEET examination, Kharge said the uncertainty had caused significant anxiety for students and their families across the country. He stated that many candidates had invested years of preparation and travelled far from home in pursuit of medical education, only to face uncertainty due to the examination-related developments.

The Congress leader questioned the government’s handling of the situation and said students deserved transparency and accountability. He argued that restoring confidence in the examination system should remain a priority, given its importance for aspiring medical professionals.

Allegations Regarding Ram Mandir Trust

Kharge also raised allegations concerning the Ram Mandir Trust, claiming that individuals associated with the trust had come under scrutiny. He questioned the process through which appointments were made and said the government should ensure that institutions functioning under public trust maintain the highest standards of accountability.

He alleged that any irregularities involving bodies connected with important national projects should be investigated thoroughly. Kharge further asserted that good governance depends on transparency and responsible administration.

Prime Minister Highlights India’s Space Achievements

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media before the start of the Monsoon Session and spoke about India’s recent progress in the space sector. He praised the country’s growing capabilities in space technology and recognised the contribution of young innovators driving the expansion of India’s private space industry.

The Prime Minister referred to the achievements of startup Skyroot Aerospace, noting that India’s private sector has made significant advances in an area traditionally dominated by a small number of nations. He said such milestones demonstrate the growing confidence and technological strength of Indian entrepreneurs.

Veiled Political Remark Draws Opposition Response

While discussing the success of the startup, Modi mentioned that the average age of the Skyroot Aerospace team is around 28 years. During his remarks, he made an indirect reference to a “56-year-old youngster,” a statement widely viewed as a political swipe at Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

The comment quickly triggered reactions from opposition leaders, with Kharge describing the remark as inappropriate for the office of the Prime Minister. He maintained that national leaders should focus on constructive dialogue and policy matters rather than personal political exchanges.

With Parliament’s Monsoon Session now underway, the exchange has added to the political intensity expected in the coming weeks, as both the government and the opposition prepare to debate issues ranging from education and governance to economic and national development.