NEET-UG row, railway safety set to spark debate in 18th Lok Sabha's first session today

The 18th Lok Sabha's first session is scheduled to start today, with the oath-taking ceremony for newly elected members. President Droupadi Murmu will address Parliament on June 27, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to respond on July 2. However, the Opposition is anticipated to raise concerns over issues like the NEET and UGC-NET exams during the session.

Oath-taking Ceremony and Speaker's Election

The first session will begin with the oath-taking ceremony for newly elected members. The election of the Speaker is scheduled for June 26. The Opposition is likely to create an uproar over the appointment of BJP leader Bhartruhari Mahtab as the pro-tem Speaker, claiming that Congress member K Suresh was more eligible for the post. However, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that Mahtab's consecutive seven-term tenure justifies his appointment, despite breaks in Suresh's term.

In the previous two Lok Sabhas, the BJP had an absolute majority, facilitating the passage of legislative business without a leader of opposition. However, the current scenario makes the Speaker's role critical in navigating legislative processes.

NEET-UG and UGC-NET Exam Controversies

The cancellation of the UGC-NET examination due to alleged irregularities and the uproar over the NEET-UG 2024 exam results are expected to be hot topics during the session. The UGC-NET exam paper was reportedly leaked 48 hours before the exam and sold on the dark web.

Railway Safety and Kolkata Train Accident

The tragic accident of the Kolkata-bound Kanchanjunga Express, resulting in nearly 10 passenger deaths, is likely to be a point of contention. The accident was attributed to human error, highlighting unresolved issues in railway safety.

President's Address and Debate on Motion of Thanks

President Murmu will address a joint session of both houses of Parliament on June 27, followed by a debate on the Motion of Thanks. The Prime Minister is expected to respond to the debate on either July 2 or 3.

Prime Minister's Oath and Panel Administration

Pro-tem Speaker Mahtab will first call upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Leader of the Lok Sabha, to take his oath as a member of the House. Subsequently, Mahtab will administer the oath to a panel of chairpersons appointed by the President to assist in proceedings until the Speaker election on June 26.