New Delhi: Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday launched a blistering attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the Lok Sabha debate on the Anti Paper Leak Bill, accusing him of ordering police action against students during the July 20 “Sansad Chalo” march over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. Later, a portion of his remarks against the Home Minister was expunged from the record.
His remarks sparked an immediate intervention from Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who termed the allegation “very serious” and demanded an apology from the Congress leader.
“Rahul Gandhi will have to apologise,” Rijiju said, adding that it was a very serious charge against the Union home minister. “The debate won’t proceed unless Rahul proves his charges or apologises,” he added.
Rahul Gandhi, however, continued his attack, taking a swipe at Amit Shah’s absence from the House.
“I am very happy today to see that the Home Minister is not present in the House. He does not have the courage to come and sit here… He is not here because he is scared,” the Leader of Opposition said.
The remarks led to a heated face-off between the Opposition and the ruling NDA, with members from both sides raising slogans as Speaker Om Birla repeatedly appealed for order.
Intervening during Rahul Gandhi’s speech, Birla reminded the Congress MP that members were expected to confine themselves to the legislation under discussion.
“Whatever is spoken in Parliament remains on record, therefore speak on the bill and stick to facts,” the Speaker told Rahul Gandhi.
As the exchanges grew increasingly acrimonious, Birla further cautioned the Leader of Opposition against making unsubstantiated allegations.
“No one in Parliament can level charges against anyone without giving a prior notice,” the Speaker said, pulling up Rahul Gandhi over his remarks against the home minister.
The ruckus continued despite repeated appeals from the Chair, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings till 2:30 pm.
The confrontation came during the debate on the Anti Paper Leak Bill, introduced by the Centre amid nationwide outrage over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak. The legislation seeks to further strengthen the legal framework against examination malpractices and organised paper leak rackets, while the Opposition has continued to demand accountability from the government over the handling of the controversy and the police action against protesting students on July 20.