What happened

Congress escalated its challenge to the government’s account of the handling of student protests by moving toward a Lok Sabha privilege motion. Congress general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal submitted a notice to the Lok Sabha Speaker seeking action over a statement made by Union Minister Jitendra Singh.

Congress alleged that Jitendra Singh, during the debate on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 on July 29, made a statement that “no firing took place.” Congress connected the statement to Jitendra Singh’s remarks that tear gas was used and argued that, because there was no firing, no order regarding firing would arise.

K.C. Venugopal’s notice disputed Jitendra Singh’s account. Congress argued that firing did occur and that an injured person was still under medical treatment. Congress further stated that data supporting the allegation was publicly available.

Congress’s request to the Speaker argued that misleading the House would amount to a breach of privilege and contempt. Congress urged the Speaker to initiate privilege proceedings and refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges for examination and necessary action.

Background and earlier position

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