Walkout! Opposition Fires Back as Lok Sabha Speaker Silences NEET Debate

The Lok Sabha witnessed a dramatic scene today as opposition members walked out in protest, accusing Speaker Om Birla of stifling a crucial debate on the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).

The walkout, orchestrated by several opposition parties, came after repeated attempts to raise the issue of NEET and its impact on students, especially from rural and underprivileged backgrounds, were met with resistance from the Speaker.

Here’s what happened:

• The Storm Begins: The uproar began when Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi attempted to raise the matter of NEET, highlighting the concerns of students and parents struggling with the exam’s pressure.

• The Speaker’s Silence: However, Speaker Om Birla repeatedly refused to acknowledge Gogoi’s attempt, citing procedural reasons and moving on to other matters.

• Opposition Outrage: This sparked immediate outrage from opposition members who saw it as a deliberate attempt to suppress a critical debate. Several MPs rose to their feet, demanding a chance to voice their concerns.

• Walkout in Protest: When their pleas were ignored, leaders from the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Left parties, and others decided to walk out of the house in protest.

The Facts Speak Louder than Words:

The opposition’s concerns about NEET are not unfounded. Several studies and reports have highlighted the exam’s shortcomings:

• A 2023 study by the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) revealed that over 60% of rural students faced difficulties accessing NEET coaching facilities. This highlights the inequitable playing field created by the exam.

• The All India Students’ Federation (AISF) conducted a survey in 2022, which indicated that nearly 80% of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds felt overwhelmed by the pressure of NEET.

The walkout serves as a stark reminder of the growing frustration with the current system. The opposition’s demand for a meaningful discussion on NEET, its impact, and potential reform is a crucial call for action.

Whether the Speaker will reconsider his stance and allow for a debate on this critical issue remains to be seen. But one thing is certain – the walkout has brought the issue of NEET and its socio-economic implications into sharp focus.