NEW DELHI, AUG 10: Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday said the Central Government is ready for a detailed discussion in Parliament on issues surrounding the ongoing student protests, while urging Opposition parties to maintain parliamentary decorum and allow Union Home Minister Amit Shah to respond without disruption.
Rijiju said the government has no hesitation in placing its position before Parliament and is prepared to respond to the concerns and questions raised by Opposition members. However, he stressed that the discussion should take place in a peaceful, orderly and democratic manner.
The Union Minister appealed to Opposition MPs to allow Home Minister Amit Shah to complete his statement and reply once he addresses the House, instead of resorting to slogans, protests or repeated disruptions that could lead to adjournments.
The issue has emerged as a major point of confrontation during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, with Opposition parties seeking greater accountability from the government over the handling of student demonstrations, examination-related concerns and alleged police action against protesters.
Rijiju maintained that Parliament is the appropriate constitutional forum for Opposition parties to raise questions, concerns, suggestions and criticism. He said the government is prepared to respond to the issues within the established parliamentary framework.
The minister also urged all political parties to ensure that parliamentary proceedings are not repeatedly disrupted, saying meaningful discussion can take place only when both sides are given an opportunity to present their views.
The latest political confrontation comes amid continuing debate over the NEET controversy, student protests and allegations concerning the use of force during demonstrations. The government has rejected allegations that firing was carried out against protesters and has maintained that tear gas was used during the Jantar Mantar incident.
Rijiju has earlier reiterated that the government is willing to hold a comprehensive debate on matters affecting students and the examination system, stressing that Parliament should function normally and that discussions should focus on addressing concerns and finding solutions.
He said the government remains committed to engaging with the Opposition on issues raised in the House, but appealed to MPs to ensure that debates are conducted with parliamentary discipline and mutual respect.
The latest statement is likely to further shape the discussions between the Treasury and Opposition benches, as efforts continue to resolve the deadlock and ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament during the Monsoon Session.(KNC)
