The Congress has intensified its attack over an alleged “purification” ritual conducted at Uttarakhand’s Haldwani Ramlila Maidan after a public meeting addressed by party president Mallikarjun Kharge, with senior leader Kumari Selja accusing the BJP government of failing to act against those responsible while an FIR was filed against Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

The controversy dates back to August 8, when Kharge addressed a Congress rally at the Ramlila Maidan in Haldwani. A “shuddhikaran” havan was subsequently conducted at the venue by members of Shri Ram Sena Dharmarth Seva Nyas. Congress leaders have alleged that the ritual carried caste-related implications because Kharge is a Dalit leader. 

Selja questions action against Rahul Gandhi

Congress general secretary in-charge of Uttarakhand, Kumari Selja, criticised the Uttarakhand government after an FIR was registered against Rahul Gandhi in connection with his remarks on the controversy.

Selja argued that no comparable action had been taken against those who conducted the alleged purification ritual. She described the situation as a question of Dalit dignity and accused the BJP and RSS of promoting an “anti-Dalit and anti-Constitution” mindset. She also questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not intervened in the matter. 

The Congress has maintained that the incident was not merely about a religious ritual but raised concerns about caste discrimination and constitutional equality.

Rahul Gandhi seeks legal action

Rahul Gandhi has also strongly criticised the incident, describing the “shuddhikaran” as another manifestation of untouchability and demanding registration of a case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act against those involved.

The Congress leader has argued that the ritual at a venue where Kharge had recently spoken amounted to an insult to the dignity of a senior Dalit political leader.

The FIR against Gandhi has added a new political dimension to the dispute, with the Congress questioning the Uttarakhand government's handling of the original incident.

BJP rejects caste angle

The BJP has rejected the Congress's interpretation of the incident. BJP leaders have said there was no caste-based motive behind the havan and accused the Congress of attempting to give the matter a caste angle.

BJP MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said the videos related to the incident did not establish a caste connection and accused the Congress of repeatedly using caste-related issues to create divisions in society. (Devdiscourse)

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has also rejected the allegation of caste discrimination and said those who conducted the havan were not BJP office-bearers or workers. (The Times of India)

Organisers cite cleanliness and religious concerns

The organisers of the ritual have separately denied that the ceremony was directed at Kharge or linked to his caste.

Shri Ram Sena Dharmarth Seva Nyas president Girish Chandra Pandey said the ritual was conducted after garbage was found at the venue following the Congress rally. The organisers also alleged that provocative religious slogans had been raised during the event and said the havan was intended to restore the sanctity of the Ramlila ground. 

Members associated with the organising group also rejected the caste-discrimination allegation, saying people from different communities participated in the ritual.

Congress plans wider protests

The controversy has continued to escalate, with the Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee announcing plans to lodge FIRs at multiple locations across the state over the purification ritual. The party has also announced a major protest in Dehradun on September 7, with senior Congress leaders, including Selja, expected to participate. 

The dispute has now developed into a wider political confrontation over caste discrimination, religious practices and constitutional equality. While the Congress is demanding accountability and legal action over the alleged insult to Kharge, the BJP and the ritual's organisers maintain that the ceremony had no caste-based motive. The competing claims are likely to keep the issue in focus in Uttarakhand in the coming days.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday defended his party's position on the singing of Vande Mataram, saying it follows the version agreed upon by national leaders including Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

Speaking in Kalaburagi, Karnataka, Kharge accused the Narendra Modi government and the BJP of pursuing what he described as the “politics of polarisation”. His remarks came in response to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's criticism of the Congress over its decision to sing only two stanzas of the national song.

The exchange has added a fresh political dimension to the ongoing debate over Vande Mataram, its historical versions and its place in official and public programmes.

Kharge Defends Congress Stand

Kharge said the Congress was following the version of Vande Mataram that had been decided by national leaders during the freedom movement.

He referred specifically to Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel while defending the party's position on the shorter version of the song.

Kharge questioned whether leaders who had agreed upon the shorter version could also be described as “anti-national”.

Shah Targets Congress

Kharge's comments followed a sharp attack by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the Congress.

Shah had criticised the party's decision to sing only two stanzas of Vande Mataram, alleging that the move was “anti-national” and linked to vote-bank politics.

He also argued that the Congress had departed from the full version of the national song for political reasons.

Debate Over Two Stanzas

The political disagreement centres on the practice of singing the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram in official settings.

The Congress maintains that the shorter version was adopted after discussions among national leaders and was intended to accommodate concerns surrounding some portions of the complete composition.

Kharge's latest statement seeks to place the party's position within the historical decisions taken during the freedom struggle.

Polarisation Charge

Kharge accused the BJP-led government of using the issue for political polarisation.

He argued that the Congress was not rejecting Vande Mataram but following the version historically accepted by prominent leaders of the national movement.

The Congress has repeatedly criticised the BJP for raising issues involving national symbols and patriotic themes for political mobilisation.

Historical Leaders Cited

In defending the Congress position, Kharge invoked the names of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, both of whom played prominent roles in India's freedom movement and the political transition leading to Independence.

His argument was that the decisions of these leaders should be considered when assessing the Congress's position on the national song.

Kharge's question about whether such leaders could be considered “anti-national” was directed at the political criticism currently being made against the Congress.

BJP-Congress Clash

The controversy has become another point of confrontation between the BJP and Congress.

The BJP has sought to portray the Congress position as disrespectful towards a major symbol of India's freedom struggle, while Congress leaders have accused the ruling party of politicising the national song.

The disagreement comes amid wider political differences between the two parties over nationalism, history and the legacy of the freedom movement.

Political Row Continues

The latest comments from Kharge are likely to keep the Vande Mataram debate at the centre of political discourse.

For the Congress, the argument is that the shorter version follows a historical decision involving national leaders. For the BJP, the issue represents what it sees as the Congress's failure to accord due importance to the complete national song.

The dispute therefore extends beyond the song itself into a broader political argument over nationalism, historical interpretation and the legacy of India's freedom movement.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The Congress and BJP are expected to continue presenting competing interpretations of the historical decision surrounding Vande Mataram.

The immediate political focus will remain on whether other senior leaders from either party respond to Kharge's remarks or Shah's earlier criticism.

The controversy also places renewed attention on the historical circumstances in which the shorter version of Vande Mataram came to be used at official and public events.

POLITICAL TAKEAWAY

Mallikarjun Kharge has defended the Congress's position on Vande Mataram, saying the party follows the version agreed upon by national leaders including Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

His remarks came after Amit Shah accused the Congress of being “anti-national” for singing only two stanzas of the song. Kharge rejected that criticism and accused the BJP-led government of pursuing the politics of polarisation.

The dispute reflects a wider political contest between the BJP and Congress over nationalism, historical legacy and the interpretation of decisions taken during India's freedom movement.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has questioned the Centre over the sharp rise in sugar prices and declining domestic stocks, raising concerns about sugar imports and the government's ethanol policy ahead of the festive season.

In a post on X on Saturday, Kharge questioned what he described as a contradiction between the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat push and the decision to allow duty-free sugar imports. He asked why sugar stocks in India, one of the world's major sugar producers and exporters, had fallen to a nine-year low and why the government had permitted the import of 10 lakh tonnes of sugar without duty.

Kharge also questioned the diversion of sugarcane towards ethanol production for petrol blending while India was importing sugar to meet domestic requirements. He raised three questions for the Centre amid the increase in sugar prices, which, according to the figures cited in the report, have risen by ₹19 per kg over three months and are around 40% higher.

Centre Rejects Ethanol Link

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has rejected the claim that the increase in sugar prices was linked to the diversion of sugar towards ethanol production.

According to the ministry, the proportion of sugar diverted for ethanol production declined from around 12% in 2022-23 to about 9% in 2025-26. It also said that nearly three-fourths of India's ethanol production now comes from grains, particularly maize.

The government attributed the recent rise in sugar prices to several factors, including lower domestic production, increased demand ahead of festivals, weather-related crop damage, tight global supplies and alleged hoarding and speculative activity.

Sugar Production Estimate Cut

India's sugar production for the current season has been estimated at 306 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), significantly lower than the earlier projection of 343 LMT.

The reduction has been attributed to crop damage caused by diseases such as red rot and top borer, along with waterlogging following excessive rainfall in several sugarcane-growing regions.

Despite the downward revision, the Consumer Affairs Ministry said domestic sugar stocks would remain adequate to meet the country's requirements until the beginning of the new crushing season in October.

Global Shortage Adds Pressure

International market conditions have also contributed to the rise in sugar prices. The global sugar market is estimated to face a deficit of around 33 LMT in 2026-27, adding pressure to international prices.

International sugar prices increased from around $474 per tonne on June 30 to $552 per tonne on August 20, representing a rise of more than 16% in less than two months.

The increase in global prices comes at a time when domestic demand is expected to rise during the upcoming festive season, putting additional pressure on the Indian sugar market.

Centre Tightens Stock Limits

The government has also introduced measures aimed at preventing hoarding and speculative activity in the domestic market. A 400-tonne stock limit has been imposed on dealers until November 30.

A separate 15-day stock limit for bulk consumers will come into effect from September 1. The Centre and state governments have also formed joint teams to physically verify sugar stocks at mills.

The government says the inspections are intended to ensure accurate reporting of available stocks and prevent artificial shortages in the domestic market.

With sugar prices rising ahead of the festive season, the issue has now become a point of political confrontation, with Kharge questioning the Centre's import and ethanol policies while the government attributes the price increase primarily to lower production, weather damage, global market conditions and demand-related factors.

“Will These Traitors Teach Us?”: Pawan Khera Slams RSS, BJP Amid Vande Mataram Row

Congress leader Pawan Khera on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the BJP and the RSS amid the ongoing political controversy over Vande Mataram, questioning their credentials to lecture the Congress on patriotism and the national song.

Khera's remarks come amid an escalating exchange between the Congress and BJP over the rendition of Vande Mataram during Independence Day-related events and the Congress's position on singing the song's first two stanzas. (Lokmat Times)

Khera Targets RSS, BJP

Reacting to criticism from the BJP and RSS, Khera questioned whether the organisations had the authority to teach the Congress about patriotism.

He said, “Will these traitors teach us?”, while attacking the RSS and BJP over their criticism of the Congress.

The remarks have added another layer to an already heated political confrontation over Vande Mataram.

Vande Mataram Row

The controversy intensified after a video from an Independence Day programme at the Congress headquarters circulated on social media, leading BJP leaders to accuse the Congress of disrespecting the national song. The BJP has particularly targeted Congress leaders over the manner in which the song was performed at the event. (The Times of India)

The Congress has maintained its position of singing the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram, citing the party's historical position dating back to a 1937 resolution. The Congress Working Committee reaffirmed this position at its August 19 meeting. (The Times of India)

BJP Hits Back

The BJP has strongly rejected the Congress's position and accused the party of disrespecting the national song.

BJP national president Nitin Nabin criticised the Congress over its stance, while BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari also attacked the Opposition party during the controversy. (The Times of India)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had earlier accused the Congress of insulting Vande Mataram and demanded an apology over the controversy surrounding its Independence Day programme. (The Economic Times)

Congress Defends Its Position

Congress leaders have pushed back against the BJP's allegations, arguing that the party respects Vande Mataram while maintaining its established position regarding the portions of the song that should be performed at official events.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has also criticised the BJP and RSS during the controversy, questioning their role in India's freedom struggle. (The Times of India)

Political Row Escalates

The dispute over Vande Mataram has now become part of a wider political confrontation between the two parties, with both sides invoking the national song, India's freedom movement and questions of patriotism.

Khera's latest comments are likely to further intensify the exchange as the Congress and BJP continue to attack each other over the issue.

A heated exchange erupted in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday between Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge and Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, as the Opposition intensified its demand for Home Minister Amit Shah to make a statement in Parliament over the alleged police action against student protesters.

The confrontation took place during the Monsoon Session amid repeated disruptions and sloganeering by Opposition members, leading to multiple adjournments in both Houses.

Kharge Defends Right to Speak

Responding to Rijiju's remarks, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge asserted that it was his parliamentary right to decide what to speak and when to speak.

Kharge accused the government of attempting to dictate proceedings in the House and questioned why Amit Shah had not appeared in Parliament to respond to the Opposition's concerns.

He also referred to former Union Minister Arun Jaitley's earlier observations that disruptions were part of parliamentary democracy, arguing that the Opposition was raising legitimate issues concerning students.

Rijiju Urges Opportunity for New MPs

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered that Kharge was repeatedly speaking on the same subject while preventing newly elected Opposition MPs from participating in debates.

Citing Congress leader Pawan Khera, Rijiju said the first-time Rajya Sabha member had not yet been given an opportunity to deliver his maiden speech because senior leaders continued occupying the discussion time.

Rijiju further maintained that the Leader of the Opposition could request the Chair but could not dictate which minister should appear before the House.

Opposition Continues Protest

Opposition MPs continued raising slogans demanding that Home Minister Amit Shah address Parliament over the alleged July 20 police action against student protesters.

Members repeatedly chanted slogans calling upon Shah to come to the House, while several Opposition parties also sought discussions on the alleged Ram Mandir donation theft issue.

The Rajya Sabha witnessed repeated interruptions before being adjourned for an hour.

Amit Shah Arrives in Parliament

Amid the ongoing political confrontation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reached Parliament during the day.

Government sources indicated that Shah was expected to participate in the Lok Sabha discussion on the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, although the Opposition continued demanding a separate statement specifically on the student protest issue.

Lok Sabha Passes Bill Without Debate

The Lok Sabha later passed the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill without debate before proceedings were adjourned until 11 am on Friday.

Earlier in the day, the House also observed a tribute to the victims of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, with a visiting Japanese parliamentary delegation joining the proceedings.

Parliament Remains Deadlocked

The latest confrontation reflects the continuing deadlock during the Monsoon Session, with the Opposition insisting on discussions over alleged police action against students and other issues before allowing normal legislative business to proceed.

The government, meanwhile, has maintained that Parliament should continue functioning and legislative work should not be disrupted.

The alleged Ram Mandir donation misappropriation issue triggered a storm in Parliament on Tuesday, leading to repeated disruptions in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha before proceedings were adjourned for the day. The controversy dominated the 12th day of the Monsoon Session as the Opposition demanded accountability, while the government accused its rivals of politicising the issue.

The sharpest exchange took place in the Rajya Sabha, where Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the Centre over the allegations involving the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju responded by accusing the Congress and its allies of hypocrisy, resulting in heated exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches.

Kharge Questions Centre Over Allegations

Raising the issue during the proceedings, Kharge referred to allegations of embezzlement involving cash donations, jewellery and land linked to the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

He argued that the trust was constituted by the Central Government and entrusted with more than 70 acres of land for the construction and management of the Ram Mandir. He also noted that the Prime Minister and the Union Government had been associated with every major milestone of the temple project.

Questioning the role of central investigative agencies, Kharge asked where the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and other agencies were, and demanded that the government respond to the allegations in Parliament.

Government Launches Counterattack

Responding to the Opposition's charges, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju strongly rejected the allegations and accused the Congress and the Samajwadi Party of attempting to mislead the country.

Rijiju alleged that parties now raising questions had opposed the Ram Mandir movement for years and had criticised the temple even after its construction.

He said those who had opposed Lord Ram could not now claim to be concerned about the temple's affairs and accused the Opposition of shedding "crocodile tears" for political gain. He also demanded that they apologise to the nation before seeking answers from the government.

Repeated Disruptions in Both Houses

The issue sparked loud sloganeering and protests from members of both the ruling alliance and the Opposition.

Opposition MPs from the Congress, Samajwadi Party (SP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other INDIA bloc parties staged protests inside and outside Parliament over the alleged donation irregularities.

The continued disruptions forced the Lok Sabha to adjourn shortly after reconvening in the afternoon, while the Rajya Sabha also witnessed repeated interruptions before being adjourned for the day.

Other Business Amid Protests

Despite the protests, the government managed to conduct limited legislative business.

The Lok Sabha passed the Appropriation (No. 3) Bill, 2026 by voice vote and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharamanintroduced the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026.

In the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai introduced the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which proposes stricter rules for delayed registration of births and deaths by requiring approval from a Judicial Magistrate First Class if registration is sought more than two years after the event.

Meanwhile, outside Parliament, DMK MPs protested over the Cauvery water dispute, while Congress MPs led by Deepender Hooda demanded that Haryana be considered to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

Political Flashpoint Continues

The Ram Mandir donation controversy has emerged as one of the most contentious issues of the ongoing Monsoon Session, with both the government and the Opposition refusing to soften their positions.

While the Opposition has demanded a detailed explanation from the Centre regarding the allegations linked to the temple trust, the government maintains that the issue is being used to create political controversy around a matter of faith.

With Parliament set to reconvene on Wednesday, the issue is expected to remain at the centre of political debate.

New Delhi: Parliament witnessed heated exchanges and Opposition protests on Thursday as key legislation, including the Vande Mataram Bill and the amended anti-paper leak law, moved ahead amid continuing political tension over the NEET controversy and alleged police action against protesting students. The Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026 by voice vote, extending legal protection to the national song Vande Mataram. Under the proposed provisions, intentionally preventing the singing of Vande Mataram or disrupting a gathering where it is being sung could attract imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both. Repeat offenders could face a minimum jail term of one year. Soon after the Bill was passed, sloganeering broke out in the Lok Sabha and the House was adjourned for the day. The legislation became the first Bill to clear both Houses during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

The debate also saw sharp political differences over the legislation. Minister of State for Home Nityananda Rai accused the Congress of failing to give Vande Mataram the respect it deserved during its years in power. Opposition members questioned the need for the law, with DMK MP Kanimozhi describing it as a political move presented in the name of nationalism. BJP MP Sambit Patra countered the criticism and accused previous governments of failing to properly honour the national song. At the same time, the political temperature remained high in the Rajya Sabha, where Congress president and Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge raised the issue of alleged police excesses against students protesting over the NEET paper leak. Kharge demanded Union Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation and questioned who had authorised the alleged use of lathis, tear gas and pellet guns against protesters. He claimed that more than 100 students were injured. Leader of the House J P Nadda hit back at the Opposition, accusing it of repeatedly disrupting Parliament despite the government's willingness to discuss issues.

The Rajya Sabha also passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, a day after it cleared the Lok Sabha. The legislation proposes tougher punishment for people involved in examination fraud and paper leaks. The minimum jail term for unfair means would rise from three years to five years, while the maximum punishment could extend to 10 years. The maximum fine would increase to Rs 50 lakh. Organised examination-related crimes could attract a minimum seven-year prison term and fines of up to Rs 10 crore. The Bill also provides for Special Fast Track Courts and a Special Task Force to investigate such offences. Union Minister Jitendra Singh defended the changes, saying they reflected the government's commitment to protecting students and ensuring zero tolerance towards paper leaks. Kharge, however, argued that harsher punishment alone would not fix problems in the examination system and called for wider reforms, including a fixed examination calendar and an independent investigation into the police action against protesters.

Outside Parliament, Congress and other INDIA bloc MPs continued their protests, demanding answers from the government over the alleged use of excessive force against students. Inside the Rajya Sabha, Opposition MPs sought a statement from Amit Shah, but Chairman C P Radhakrishnan rejected the demand and continued with House proceedings. Opposition members later staged a walkout. Away from the confrontation in Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a nearly two-hour high-level meeting with senior ministers and officials to review India's preparedness amid the ongoing West Asia crisis. The government said there was no shortage of petrol, diesel, LPG or fertilisers and maintained that adequate urea stocks were available for the coming crop seasons. The meeting was attended by senior ministers and officials including Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, S Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Hardeep Singh Puri, Piyush Goyal and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.

Protests Disrupt Both Houses

The Parliament Monsoon Session faced another round of disruption on Thursday as Opposition protests over the NEET paper leak interrupted proceedings in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Presiding officers adjourned both Houses until 2 p.m. after slogan-shouting began soon after the proceedings opened.

The confrontation centred on the Opposition’s demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and a formal government statement on the examination controversy. The government said it remained ready for a discussion but rejected any pre-condition for holding the debate.

Government Offers Debate

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju told the Rajya Sabha that the government could discuss the NEET issue in both Houses. He accused the Congress of attaching conditions that prevented the discussion from taking place.

Rijiju said the parties should agree on the subject, format and duration of a structured debate. The government has maintained that Parliament can examine the paper leak, the investigation and proposed examination reforms under established parliamentary procedures.

Opposition Seeks Resignation

Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge repeated the demand for Pradhan’s resignation before any discussion. He argued that the minister’s continuation in office would undermine an impartial debate on the alleged leak and its handling.

Kharge also asked the Centre to make a clear statement in Parliament. Congress MPs and other Opposition members continued their protests in both Houses, keeping the political focus on accountability rather than only on future procedural changes.

Fast-Track Courts Announced

The parliamentary confrontation followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement that the government would create fast-track courts for paper leak cases. Modi said the government would protect students’ interests and seek swift and stringent punishment for those who damage the future of young people.

The announcement did not end the agitation. The Cockroach Janta Party, which has led the protests in Delhi, and Opposition leaders continued to demand Pradhan’s removal. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also renewed his attack on the government and sought action against those responsible for the examination failure and the alleged police action against protesters.

Three Days Disrupted

The first three days of the Parliament Monsoon Session saw repeated interruptions, leaving little scope for substantial legislative business. The NEET controversy, the CJP agitation and allegations of police excesses during the July 20 march remained the main points of dispute.

Opposition parties have sought an urgent debate after suspending the listed business. The government has offered a structured discussion, but the two sides have not agreed on the parliamentary rule, timing or political conditions. That difference has kept both Houses locked in a procedural and political stalemate.

Wider Public Impact

The NEET paper leak has become a major public interest story because the entrance examination determines admission to undergraduate medical courses across India. Any compromise in the process affects candidates, their families, counselling schedules and public confidence in national testing systems.

The deadlock dominated Latest News Today and India News Update coverage, while Government Updates focused on fast-track courts and examination reforms. The dispute also featured prominently in Trending News India coverage because it combines student concerns, political accountability and institutional credibility.

What Happens Next

Both Houses could resume normal business if the government and Opposition settle the terms of a debate. The Opposition may continue to press for Pradhan’s resignation and a discussion on the alleged police action, while the Centre will likely focus on investigations, special courts and reforms aimed at preventing future leaks.

The Parliament Monsoon Session will remain under pressure until the two sides find a workable route to discuss the NEET paper leak. The next round of proceedings will show whether Parliament can move from slogans to a substantive debate on accountability, punishment and examination security.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday demanded that the alleged paper leak issue be discussed in Parliament and that the Union Home Minister give a clarification in the House, saying the matter concerns the future of the country’s youth and cannot be ignored.

Rahul Gandhi, along with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and several senior party leaders, staged a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official residence on Lok Kalyan Marg. The protest came a day after police action against students and protesters during a march linked to the alleged examination paper leak controversy.

According to Congress leaders, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh met Rahul Gandhi at the protest site and requested that the demonstration be called off. Rahul, however, reiterated that the government must allow a discussion on the paper leak issue in Parliament and that the Home Minister should make a statement in the House.

Congress Targets Centre

In a post on social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi said that an attack on students is an attack on every Indian family. He accused the government of trying to avoid answering questions on the paper leak issue and the police action against protesters.

He also appealed to citizens who believe students deserve justice to join the protest, saying that the voices of India’s students cannot be ignored.

Demand for Accountability

Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi alleged that the government was unwilling to take responsibility for the alleged failures in conducting public examinations. He said the issue was not merely about one examination, but about the credibility of the entire recruitment and education system.

The Congress has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged paper leak incidents and has accused the government of failing to protect the integrity of public examinations.

Rahul and Priyanka Visit Injured Protesters

Before the protest outside the Prime Minister’s residence, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi visited Delhi’s Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital to meet students and protesters injured during Monday’s police action.

The Congress leaders interacted with those undergoing treatment and alleged that excessive force had been used against demonstrators. The party has sought accountability for the police action and demanded that the concerns raised by students be addressed through dialogue.

Parliament Remains Disrupted

The paper leak issue has also led to repeated disruptions during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. Opposition parties have been pressing for a detailed discussion on alleged examination irregularities, recruitment delays and the handling of student protests.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has also criticised the government, alleging that Parliament was not being allowed to function properly on an issue of national importance.

With the Opposition continuing its protest campaign, the paper leak controversy is expected to remain a major political flashpoint in the Monsoon Session. The Congress has indicated that it will continue to press for a parliamentary debate, a statement from the Home Minister and accountability from the government over both the alleged examination irregularities and the police action against students.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament remained stormy on its second day as persistent Opposition protests over the NEET paper leak and other issues repeatedly disrupted proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Amid the deadlock, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and senior party MPs met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding adequate time to discuss the examination controversy and other pressing national issues.

The repeated disruptions led to multiple adjournments before both Houses were finally adjourned for the day, highlighting the continuing standoff between the government and the Opposition.

Opposition Demands Discussion on NEET

Congress leaders urged the Speaker to allow a detailed debate on the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, arguing that the issue has affected the future of millions of students across the country.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge alleged that his microphone was switched off during proceedings, preventing him from raising key concerns in the House. The Opposition maintained that Parliament should prioritize discussions on issues directly affecting students and public interest.

Apart from the NEET controversy, Opposition parties also sought discussions on the alleged theft of offerings from the Ram Temple, making it another point of contention during the session.

Rahul Gandhi Meets Speaker Om Birla

Following the repeated adjournments, Rahul Gandhi, accompanied by several Congress MPs, met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to press for a structured debate on the NEET paper leak and other important matters.

The Congress delegation emphasized that Parliament should provide adequate opportunity for the Opposition to present its concerns instead of allowing repeated disruptions to derail legislative business.

PM Modi Calls NEET Leak a "Grave Sin"

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the NDA Parliamentary Party strategy meeting at Parliament House, where the NEET paper leak figured prominently in discussions.

Addressing party MPs, the Prime Minister described the examination leak as a "grave sin" and stressed that those responsible must face strict punishment. He also called for establishing a foolproof examination system to restore public confidence and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The government's remarks come amid increasing political pressure over examination-related irregularities and demands for greater accountability.

First Day Also Witnessed Repeated Disruptions

The Monsoon Session had opened on Monday with similar scenes of disruption. The Lok Sabha was adjourned six times, while the Rajya Sabha witnessed five adjournments due to Opposition protests.

Several MPs entered the House carrying placards and banners, demanding immediate discussions on the NEET paper leak and other issues. The protests repeatedly interrupted legislative proceedings, leaving little time for scheduled business.

Government Continues Legislative Agenda

Despite the disruptions, the government initiated its legislative agenda. In the Lok Sabha, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced a Bill to replace an ordinance that increases the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges from 34 to 38.

The government is also expected to introduce several other key Bills during the Monsoon Session as it seeks to complete important legislative business within the scheduled sittings.

Political Confrontation Likely to Continue

With the Opposition determined to raise the NEET controversy and other issues, and the government pushing ahead with its legislative priorities, Parliament is expected to witness further confrontations in the coming days.

Political observers believe the NEET paper leak will remain one of the dominant issues throughout the Monsoon Session, alongside debates over governance, education reforms, and accountability.

The Monsoon Session of Parliament began on a stormy note as repeated protests by opposition parties led to disruptions in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on the very first day. The proceedings were adjourned multiple times after opposition members demanded discussions on issues including the alleged NEET paper leak and matters related to donations at the Ram Temple. Despite the disruptions, the government proceeded with its legislative agenda by introducing an important bill to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media outside Parliament before the session commenced, expressing hope that the Monsoon Session would remain productive and focused on meaningful discussions. He emphasized that Parliament should become a platform where facts, logic, and constructive debates guide policymaking for the benefit of the nation.

The Prime Minister said that just as the monsoon season is important for agriculture and the country's economy, a productive parliamentary session is equally vital for democratic governance. He urged all political parties and Members of Parliament to participate responsibly and ensure that every voice is heard through healthy discussions rather than disruptions.

During his address, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted India's recent developmental achievements. He referred to the commissioning of one of the country's largest refinery projects in Rajasthan and mentioned the launch of India's green hydrogen-powered train. According to him, only a few countries currently operate hydrogen-powered trains, and India's train represents a significant technological milestone in sustainable transportation. He also noted that despite global economic uncertainties and geopolitical challenges, India has continued to register strong economic growth.

Inside Parliament, the opposition continued demanding debates on various public issues. Several members entered the House carrying placards and banners while raising slogans, leading to repeated interruptions in legislative business. As a result, both Houses witnessed multiple adjournments throughout the day.

Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge raised concerns regarding recent events at Jantar Mantar, where students had gathered for a protest. He urged the government to allow democratic expression and called for a discussion on the matter inside the House. Opposition members maintained that Parliament should debate issues they considered important to the public.

Despite the protests, the government introduced a significant legislative proposal in the Lok Sabha. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal presented the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026. The proposed legislation seeks to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court from 34 to 38, including the Chief Justice of India.

The amendment aims to replace an ordinance issued earlier this year that had already authorized the expansion of judicial strength. Following the ordinance, appointments of additional judges had been initiated to address the growing number of pending cases before the country's highest court.

Government officials have stated that increasing the number of judges will strengthen the judicial system, improve efficiency in case disposal, and help reduce the burden of pending litigation. Since the amendment only changes the sanctioned strength of judges, it does not require any constitutional amendment and can be passed through a simple majority in Parliament.

The first day of the Monsoon Session also witnessed the arrival of senior political leaders from both the ruling alliance and the opposition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met several senior BJP leaders, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, before the proceedings began. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also attended Parliament as opposition parties prepared to raise several issues during the session.

Political observers believe the Monsoon Session is likely to witness intense debates on governance, education, the economy, judicial reforms, and other national issues over the coming weeks. At the same time, the government is expected to introduce several important bills aimed at administrative reforms and institutional strengthening.

The expansion of the Supreme Court's sanctioned judicial strength is being viewed as an important step toward improving the efficiency of India's judicial system. Legal experts have frequently pointed out that increasing the number of judges can help accelerate hearings and reduce delays in delivering justice.

As Parliament moves forward with its legislative agenda, the government has reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and development-oriented policymaking. Prime Minister Modi once again appealed to all political parties to ensure that parliamentary proceedings remain focused on discussions that contribute positively to national progress.

With several significant bills expected during the Monsoon Session, both the government and the opposition are preparing for active participation in debates. Citizens across the country will closely watch the proceedings as Parliament deliberates on key issues affecting governance, justice, economic growth, and public welfare in the weeks ahead.

Party president Mallikarjun Kharge outlined the plan in a detailed post on X, using the phrase "chanda chori" — loosely, "donation theft" — to describe the alleged embezzlement scandal at Ayodhya's Ram Temple, which he framed as a betrayal of religious faith. Alongside that, Kharge listed examination paper leaks and what he called the systemic erosion of the education system, allegations of institutional capture, political defections, multiple corruption scandals, persistent price rises, foreign policy setbacks, the government's ethanol blending mandate affecting an estimated 3.5 crore vehicle owners, unchecked deforestation, and what the party describes as continued erosion of rights for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes and minorities.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, briefing reporters after the meeting, said the party would specifically press for a discussion on the Ram Temple donations issue, saying fresh developments in the case were surfacing daily and that Congress intended to raise what it characterises as a scandal linked to the BJP and RSS in Ayodhya. He said the party would also raise concerns tied to the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and broader worries about the state of India's education system.

On the foreign policy front, Ramesh said Congress wants a dedicated debate covering India's relationships with China, the United States and the evolving situation in West Asia, along with what he described as the strategic implications of Pakistan's deepening ties with Washington. He voiced frustration with how past sessions have unfolded, saying the government typically promises to prioritise opposition-raised issues at all-party meetings but then focuses primarily on passing legislation instead, leaving little room for the discussions opposition parties actually push for.

Beyond the issues list, Ramesh also flagged that the Congress had learned the government was preparing to reintroduce the Delimitation Bill, after failing to get it passed in April, and said the party would oppose it "with full strength," working to keep the broader opposition united against the legislation.

The Monsoon Session is scheduled to run from July 20 to August 13, and Thursday's strategy meeting was attended by Kharge, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and other senior party figures including KC Venugopal and Shashi Tharoor. With both the Ram Temple donation controversy and the Delimitation Bill already generating friction well before Parliament convenes, the session is shaping up as one of the more contentious in recent years.