Rijiju Slams Congress Over Paper Leak Bill Debate Row, Accuses Rahul Gandhi of Using ‘Abusive’ Language
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Accuses Opposition Leaders of Politicising Discussion, Urges Rahul Gandhi to Focus on Exam Reform Legislation
New Delhi, Jul 29: Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday accused opposition parties of avoiding a meaningful discussion on the anti-paper leak Bill and attempting to shift the focus of the Lok Sabha debate towards unrelated political issues.
Rijiju said opposition leaders were using the discussion as a platform for political criticism instead of addressing the provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026.
The minister expressed hope that Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi would discuss the legislation in the House and present suggestions related to improving the examination system.
The debate on the Bill began in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, with the government stating that the proposed amendments aim to strengthen the examination process and protect the interests of students.
However, opposition parties raised concerns over the police action during the July 20 protest march to Parliament led by the CJP, alleging that the government’s response to student demonstrations reflected a lack of sensitivity towards young people.
Government Defends Examination Reform Bill
Speaking to reporters at the Parliament complex, Rijiju said the opposition had failed to contribute to the discussion on the legislation.
“Congress leaders did not speak on the Bill at all. They were only doing politics. We hope Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders will speak on the Bill,” he said.
The minister described the proposed legislation as an important step taken in response to concerns raised by students over examination irregularities.
He said the government’s initiative would help restore confidence among young people and improve transparency in competitive examinations.
“If the Congress has any suggestions regarding the examination system, it is free to share them,” Rijiju added.
Rijiju Questions Opposition Speeches in Parliament
The Union minister alleged that several opposition leaders used their speeches to raise issues unrelated to the Bill rather than discussing measures to prevent unfair practices in examinations.
Referring to Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s speech, Rijiju claimed that her remarks focused on matters outside the scope of the proposed legislation.
He said opposition members should have used the opportunity to debate the provisions of the Bill and suggest possible improvements.
Rijiju also appealed to Rahul Gandhi to dedicate a portion of his speech to the legislation, saying even a brief discussion on the Bill would demonstrate seriousness towards students’ concerns.
Minister Criticises Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks
Rijiju also criticised Rahul Gandhi over the language used during political attacks, saying parliamentary discussions should maintain dignity and respect.
The minister said disagreements between political parties are natural in a democracy but argued that criticism should remain within the limits of acceptable public discourse.
“We may differ with each other, but the kind of abusive and demeaning language used is not good for democracy,” Rijiju said.
He urged political leaders to maintain a respectful tone while debating important national issues.
Bill Aims to Address Examination Irregularities
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 has been introduced by the government amid growing concerns over paper leaks and irregularities affecting competitive examinations.
The legislation seeks to strengthen accountability, prevent organised malpractice, and ensure greater transparency in the examination system.
The government has maintained that protecting students’ future and restoring trust in recruitment and entrance examinations remain the primary objectives of the proposed amendments.
As the debate continues in Parliament, the Bill has become a major point of political confrontation between the ruling party and opposition benches, with both sides presenting different views on student issues and examination reforms.
