A sharp exchange erupted in the Rajya Sabha during the Monsoon Session on Wednesday as the ruling NDA and the Opposition clashed over police action against Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protesters.

The debate saw Leader of the House JP Nadda defend the police response, while Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge accused the government of suppressing democratic protests.

JP Nadda Calls Police Action 'Normal'

Responding to criticism in the Upper House, JP Nadda said the police acted to maintain public order and described the incident as a "normal law and order situation."

Drawing from his own experience as a student activist, Nadda said he had been arrested several times during the Emergency and argued that those participating in protests must be prepared to face legal consequences if law and order is disrupted.

He also accused the Opposition of attempting to sensationalise what he described as routine policing.

Kharge Questions Government's Response

Mallikarjun Kharge strongly criticised the government's handling of the protests, claiming that democracy and public safety were under threat.

He demanded accountability for the police action and questioned who had authorised the intervention against protesters, urging that those responsible be identified and action taken if any wrongdoing had occurred.

Read more: Delhi Court Extends Judicial Custody of 13 Accused in NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Case

Background of the Protest

The confrontation in Parliament follows the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" march, during which CJP supporters marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament over the alleged NEET paper leak and demands for examination reforms.

According to reports, clashes broke out after security personnel stopped the march, with allegations of lathi-charge and tear gas being used to disperse protesters.

Protest Ended After Government Assurance

The 37-day student protest at Jantar Mantar was later called off after the Centre assured demonstrators that their key demands, including examination reforms and action related to alleged paper leak cases, would be addressed.

The issue continues to remain a point of political confrontation between the government and the Opposition during the ongoing Monsoon Session.