Washout in both Houses amid Opp uproar over paper leaks, police action, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Monsoon Session of the Indian Parliament experienced a washout on its second day due to Opposition protests.
• The Opposition demanded a discussion on the NEET paper leak and police action against protesters in Delhi.
• Key demands included a parliamentary discussion on paper leaks, the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and the scrapping of all FIRs against student protesters.
• Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, met with Speaker Om Birla and led a protest outside the Prime Minister's residence.
• Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha faced multiple adjournments, preventing legislative business, including the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, from being taken up.

Detailed Insights:

• The Monsoon Session is one of the three annual parliamentary sessions, typically held between July and August, crucial for legislative work and government accountability.
• The protests highlight concerns over the integrity of national examinations and the right to peaceful assembly, which are fundamental aspects of a democratic system.
• The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a crucial all-India examination for admission to undergraduate medical and dental courses.
• Parliamentary disruptions, while a tool for the Opposition to voice dissent, can impede the legislative process and the functioning of democracy.
• The proposed Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Bill, 2026, aims to increase the sanctioned strength of Supreme Court judges, reflecting potential judicial reforms.
• The role of the Lok Sabha Speaker and Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha in maintaining decorum and facilitating parliamentary proceedings is critical during such impasses.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Monsoon Session: One of the three annual sessions of the Indian Parliament, typically held from July to August, for legislative and deliberative functions.
• NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test): A national-level entrance examination for admission to undergraduate medical and dental courses in India.
• FIR (First Information Report): A written document prepared by police when they receive information about the commission of a cognizable offence.
• Parliamentary Washout: A situation where parliamentary proceedings are repeatedly disrupted, leading to the inability to conduct legislative business.