In a dramatic session of the Lok Sabha on June 28, 2024, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi brought up the contentious issue of the NEET (National Eligibility and Entrance Test) paper leak. The session took a controversial turn when Gandhi claimed that his microphone was muted during his address. This incident has sparked a debate about transparency and freedom of speech in the Indian Parliament.The NEET paper leak scandal has been a significant point of contention in India, affecting thousands of students nationwide. Allegations of corruption and mismanagement have plagued the examination process, leading to widespread protests and demands for accountability. Rahul Gandhi, known for his vocal stance on educational reforms, seized the opportunity to highlight these issues in the Lok Sabha.anti-democratic Om Birla is back to doing his thing.Turning off the mic while Leader of Opposition is trying to express his solidarity for students. pic.twitter.com/l9spWlzP1p— meghnad (Nerds ka Parivaar) (@Memeghnad) June 28, 2024Gandhis Address in Lok SabhaRahul Gandhi stood up to speak about the NEET paper leak and its repercussions on students futures. He stressed the need for an impartial investigation and stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future. According to Gandhi, the recurring leaks undermine the credibility of the examination system and shatter the dreams of many aspiring medical students.आज जो सदन में हुआ, वह बहुत ही दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण है।नेता विपक्ष श्री @RahulGandhi ने सदन में पूरी शालीनता के साथ NEET पेपर लीक का एक अति महत्वपूर्ण विषय उठाया।लेकिन सदन में उनके माइक को बंद कर दिया गया, जो कि अच्छी संसदीय परंपरा नहीं है। नेता विपक्ष को अपनी बात रखने का पूरा… pic.twitter.com/24i5C2LP36— Congress (@INCIndia) June 28, 2024Claims of Mic MutingDuring his address, Gandhi alleged that his microphone was deliberately turned off, preventing him from completing his statement. The Congress party quickly rallied behind him, claiming this was an attempt to silence dissent and avoid addressing critical issues. This allegation has raised questions about the functioning of the Parliament and the respect for democratic processes. This previously happened with LOP of Rajya Sabha Malikarjun Kharge when his mic was switched off when he tried to raise his voice on the paper leak.देश में पेपर लीक से पीड़ित छात्रों की आवाज कांग्रेस अध्यक्ष व राज्यसभा में नेता प्रतिपक्ष श्री @kharge ने सदन में उठाई लेकिन उनका Mic off कर दिया गया।पेपर लीक के मामले पर ये सरकार खुद तो खामोश है ही, लेकिन अब वो पेपर लीक के विरोध में उठने वाली आवाजों को भी दबाना चाहती है। pic.twitter.com/Ar49yUhSUa— Congress (@INCIndia) June 28, 2024Response from the GovernmentIn response to Gandhis allegations, parliamentary officials stated that the microphone issue was due to technical difficulties rather than intentional muting. They assured that all members are given equal opportunities to speak and that no one is deliberately silenced. However, this explanation did little to quell the outcry from Congress and its supporters.Jagdeep Dhankhar lashes out on Priyanka and RaGa During a parliamentary session, Priyanka Chaturvedi was seen discussing a math equation with journalist Sagarika Ghose. The discussion was unexpectedly interrupted by Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar, who exclaimed, Priyanka Chaturvedi, whats wrong with you This unexpected interjection underscored the tense atmosphere within the session.Priyanka Chaturvedi was discussing a math equation with Sagarika Ghose.VP Jagdeep Dhankar said, Priyanka Chaturvedi, Whats wrong with you 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/kZAQcS661r— Incognito (@Incognito_qfs) June 28, 2024In a broader context, VP Dhankhar addressed the protests by opposition leaders, expressing his deep concern. He remarked, Today is such a tainted day in the history of the Indian Parliament that the Leader of the Opposition himself has come to the Well. This has never happened before. I am pained and shocked. The Indian parliamentary tradition will deteriorate to such an extent that the Leader of the Opposition will come to the Well, the Deputy Leader will come to the Well. Dhankhars statements reflect a significant moment in parliamentary history, highlighting the escalating tensions and unprecedented actions taken by opposition leaders.#WATCH | Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar expresses his stand on the protest by the leaders of the opposition.Today is such a tainted day in the history of the Indian Parliament that the Leader of the Opposition himself has come to the Well. This has… pic.twitter.com/IbzIOjAKA7— DD News (@DDNewslive) June 28, 2024Political ImplicationsThe incident has garnered significant media attention and public discourse. Many citizens expressed their concerns on social media, emphasizing the need for transparency and fairness in parliamentary proceedings. The controversy has also intensified the political rivalry between the ruling party and the opposition, with both sides trading barbs over the incident.The NEET paper leak issue, coupled with the claims of mic muting, underscores the importance of upholding democratic values and ensuring a fair platform for discussing crucial national issues. As the investigation into the NEET scandal continues, it remains to be seen how Parliament addresses these challenges and restores public confidence in the system.
