New Delhi: Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday welcomed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, describing it as a “major victory” for students who had been protesting against alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy.
Congratulating students across the country, Gandhi said the resignation marked an important milestone in the fight for a fair and transparent education system.
In a post on X, the Congress leader said, “Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is a huge step towards reshaping our education system. Well done to students across the country; we are proud of all of you.”
‘Victory for Democratic Protest’
Rahul Gandhi praised the students for sustaining what he described as a democratic movement to safeguard the Constitution, democracy, and their future.
“Heartiest congratulations to every young person and every student who took to the streets and stood firm to protect democracy, the Constitution, and their future,” he said.
According to Gandhi, the resignation demonstrates the power of peaceful public participation and collective action in holding those in authority accountable.
Two Key Demands Still Pending
While welcoming the development, Gandhi asserted that two major demands of the protesting students remain unresolved.
He called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to:
- Apologise to students and the nation over the alleged failures in the examination system.
- Ensure strict action against those responsible for the alleged use of force and violence against students during the protests.
‘Do Not Be Afraid’
In a video message, Gandhi said the students’ movement should inspire other sections of society, including farmers, labourers and economically weaker communities.
“It is a signal to other parts of society—farmers, labourers and poor people—and to anybody this regime is attacking and oppressing. There is wisdom and courage in standing up. Daro Mat (Don’t be afraid),” he said.
The Congress leader further accused the government of undermining democratic institutions and the Constitution, adding that the time had come for people to challenge the present administration through democratic means.
Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns
Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister earlier on Saturday amid mounting political pressure over the alleged NEET paper leak and other examination-related irregularities.
His resignation followed large-scale student protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and demonstrations across several states, where protesters demanded accountability and sought the Education Minister’s removal.
The resignation has intensified the political debate over the handling of competitive examinations, with opposition parties demanding comprehensive reforms to restore public confidence in India’s examination system.
