Amit Shah writes to Speaker Om Birla, says govt ready to discuss student protest

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has formally communicated to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla the government's readiness to engage in a discussion concerning ongoing student protests and the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) (UG) examination. Shah has requested the Speaker to confer with the opposition to determine a suitable time and allocate the necessary time for the debate.

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I would also like to mention that earlier, at the request of the Opposition, a discussion took place in the current session of Parliament on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, in which no honourable Member of Parliament from the Opposition expressed any views in the House regarding the NEET examination. Despite this, the government is ready to discuss this issue again.

Shah referenced a statement made by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju at a Business Advisory Committee meeting, confirming the government's willingness to discuss the student agitation and the NEET paper leak. He pointed out that during a previous session, the opposition had not voiced any concerns about the NEET examination when a bill related to public examinations was discussed. Nevertheless, Shah emphasized the government's commitment to addressing the issue again.

In his letter, Shah expressed his intention to be present in the House to participate in the discussion and respond to all questions from the opposition. He underscored the importance of dialogue in a democracy, stating, "Solutions emerge only through discussion and dialogue in a democracy. I have unwavering faith in democracy and democratic institutions, and I believe this House is meant precisely for discussion and dialogue."

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Solutions emerge only through discussion and dialogue in a democracy. I have unwavering faith in democracy and democratic institutions, and I believe this House is meant precisely for discussion and dialogue...

Earlier, Shah had indicated the government's willingness to discuss the student protests and subsequent police actions, contingent on the opposition allowing parliamentary proceedings to function smoothly. He has been consistently attending Parliament despite demands for his presence and a statement. Shah also criticized the opposition, suggesting they are hindering parliamentary function and do not genuinely desire a discussion, despite their calls for his presence and a statement on the matter.

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Ever since the Parliament session began, I have been coming regularly and sitting in my chamber. But the Opposition is not allowing Parliament to function. So, what is the point of anyone going inside when the proceedings are no