Govt open to Parliament debate on student protests; Shah to speak, says Rijiju

The government on Monday said it was ready to discuss the ongoing student protests in Parliament, with Union Minister Kiren Rijiju confirming that Home Minister Amit Shah would make a statement on the matter. The announcement comes amid a persistent deadlock in both Houses, with the opposition demanding a detailed response from Shah over the Delhi Police crackdown on student demonstrations.

Rijiju, while addressing the media, said the government was willing to engage on the issue but cautioned the opposition against creating disturbances. “The Home Minister is ready to speak. The Opposition should not create disturbances,” he said, setting the stage for a potentially heated confrontation in Parliament.

Opposition's demand and the deadlock

The logjam in Parliament has continued for days, with opposition parties, led by Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, insisting that the deadlock will persist until Shah gives a formal statement. Gandhi reiterated this stance on Monday, saying, “The deadlock in Parliament will continue till HM Shah gives a statement.” Her remarks underscore the opposition's determination to force a discussion on the police action against students protesting over various demands.

The protests, which have drawn attention across the country, involve students demanding action on issues ranging from exam delays to allegations of police excess. The government, however, has maintained that the situation is under control and that Parliament is the right forum to address concerns.

What Shah is expected to address

While the specifics of Shah's statement have not been outlined, it is expected to cover the circumstances leading to the police crackdown and the government's position on the protests. The Home Minister's address is seen as a critical step to break the impasse, but the opposition's precondition of an unconditional statement could complicate proceedings.

Rijiju's remarks suggest the government is willing to accommodate the opposition's demand, provided the House functions smoothly. “We have always been ready for discussion. It is the opposition that has been blocking proceedings,” he added, signalling a possible path forward if both sides agree on the terms of the debate.

Political reactions and next steps

Political observers note that the outcome of this standoff will depend on whether the opposition accepts the government's offer and allows Shah to speak without preconditions. The Congress and other opposition parties have so far maintained that any discussion must follow a statement by the Home Minister, a demand the government has now seemingly accepted.

As Parliament reconvenes later in the day, all eyes will be on the floor leaders to see if a consensus emerges. The government has indicated its readiness, but the opposition's next move remains uncertain. If both sides hold their ground, the deadlock could extend further, delaying legislative business.

The coming hours will be crucial in determining whether the government's offer translates into a substantive debate or if Parliament remains stalled. With the opposition firm on its demand and the government now offering a statement, the onus is on parliamentary managers to broker a truce. The nation will be watching to see if the logjam breaks or if the impasse deepens, with the student protests continuing to simmer in the background.