SRINAGAR, June 24: National Conference leader Omar Abdullah criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not addressing the NEET row and instead focusing on attacking the opposition during the first day of the Parliament session. Abdullah expressed his disappointment, stating that while it is the prerogative of the Honorable PM to criticize the opposition, it would have been more appropriate for him to acknowledge the concerns of the young men and women affected by the #NEET scandal.
Abdullah emphasized that initiatives like “Exam pe charcha” should be a long-term commitment to addressing the interests and concerns of students. His remarks were in response to Prime Minister Modi’s statements in the Parliament premises where he called for a responsible opposition that engages in substantive debates rather than slogans.
Meanwhile, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also voiced her hopes that Parliamentarians would rise above party lines to address the NEET issue in the House. She highlighted the plight of lakhs of students across India who faced uncertainty due to alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam conducted on May 5. Mufti urged every parliamentarian to advocate for these students whose future appears uncertain.
The CBI has initiated an FIR in connection with the NEET-UG exam irregularities and is coordinating with state authorities where cases have been registered.
Abdullah also congratulated all MPs taking oath today and called for the release of MP-elect Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Engineer from north Kashmir Lok Sabha seat. He stressed the importance of Rashid being able to represent his constituents despite his victory being overshadowed by his current detention.
Furthermore, Abdullah reiterated his party’s demands for a broader amnesty for all individuals detained since August 5, 2019, and for the transfer of detainees held outside Jammu and Kashmir back to local jails pending their release.
