NEW DELHI: Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Saturday hailed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, describing it as a victory for students agitating over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy.
Congratulating students for what he termed a successful democratic movement, Gandhi said Pradhan’s resignation marked an important step towards reforming India’s education system.
“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,” Gandhi said in a post on X.
Extending his congratulations to the protesting students, the Congress leader said the development demonstrated the power of collective action in defending democracy, constitutional values, and the future of the country's youth.
“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.
However, he said that two key demands of the student community remained unresolved. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should apologise to students and the nation for the alleged failures in the examination system, and strict action should be taken against those responsible for violence against students during the protests.
In a video message, Gandhi said, “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),” Gandhi said.
“Let’s get rid of this regime that is attacking India, destroying our Constitution and capturing all our institutions,” he said, adding that “the time has come to remove this government”.
Earlier in the day, Dharmendra Pradhan tendered his resignation as Union Education Minister amid mounting pressure over the alleged NEET paper leak and other examination-related irregularities.
His resignation came against the backdrop of large-scale student protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and demonstrations across several parts of the country, where protesters had been demanding accountability and seeking the Education Minister’s removal.
