The Lok Sabha witnessed repeated disruptions on Monday as Opposition members staged a protest over the NEET issue, forcing the House to be adjourned till 5 p.m.
Earlier in the day, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh, introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. The Bill proposes stringent measures to curb examination malpractices, including imprisonment of up to ten years, fines of up to ₹10 crore, and confiscation of the properties of convicted offenders. It also mandates the establishment of Special Fast Track Courts in every State and Union Territory, with investigations to be completed within two months and trials concluded within three months of the filing of the chargesheet.
When the House reassembled after its second adjournment at 2 p.m., Speaker Om Birla attempted to take up discussion on the Bill. However, Opposition members continued sloganeering, demanding the withdrawal of FIRs filed against students during protests over the NEET issue.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised the disruptions, saying adequate time had been allotted for debate and that 91 amendment notices had been received, reflecting members' willingness to discuss the legislation. He said disrupting deliberations on a Bill concerning the future of the country's youth sent a wrong message.
Speaker Om Birla described the Bill as an important step towards preventing paper leaks and strengthening the integrity of public examinations. Emphasising that democracy thrives on debate and the expression of diverse views, he urged members to participate in the discussion rather than disrupt proceedings. He also noted that six hours had been allocated for the debate, with the possibility of an extension if required.
Despite repeated appeals from the Chair, the Opposition continued its protest, leading to the adjournment of the House till 5 p.m.
