Union Home Minister Amit Shah reacted to the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday, stating that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) considers the country, its youth, and students more significant than any position held. He also affirmed the Modi government's commitment to implementing reforms aimed at combating the leakage of examination materials.
In his post on social media platform X, Shah noted: 'For BJP workers, the country, our youth, and students are far more important than any position. Today, the resignation of Union Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan from his post illustrates exactly this principle.' He added that the government respects the feelings of students and remains focused on introducing measures to prevent test leaks, expressing confidence that those responsible will be punished and justice restored for NEET aspirants.
Shah also highlighted Pradhan's tenure as Education Minister, noting his contribution to advancing several important educational initiatives. These include the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), expanding examinations in regional languages, developing PM SHRI schools, digitalizing education, enhancing qualifications, and fostering collaboration between industry and academia.
He stated that during his time in office, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan achieved substantial transformations in the effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP), the organization of examinations in regional languages, the expansion of PM SHRI schools, the promotion of digital education, skill development, and strengthening interaction between industry and academia. His efforts to create a more inclusive and student-centric examination system were also noted. His tenure is a testament to his dedication to transforming India into a developed nation.
Pradhan resigned on Saturday amid nationwide protests related to the alleged leak of NEET-UG examination materials. A few hours later, senior BJP leader Pralad Joshi received an additional assignment in the Ministry of Education. Furthermore, the Centre reached an agreement with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), leading to the cessation of their 36-day protests outside the Jantral Mantar in Delhi.
The Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, submitted his resignation from the Council of Ministers on Saturday amid ongoing protests related to the NEET exam leak.
In a letter addressed to his 'young friends,' Pradhan stated that he submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, taking into account the situation in both the Janpath Mantar and across the country.
Pradhan noted that he dedicated over four decades to working for students, teachers, and educational reforms. He has always believed that a strong, comprehensive, and far-sighted education system is the foundation of a strong nation. The minister expressed deep respect for the aspirations, feelings, and fair expectations of the country's youth.
He emphasized that realizing the dreams of India's younger generation was the moral duty of all participants in political and social life. Pradhan thanked the esteemed Prime Minister for the opportunity to serve the nation under his visionary leadership.
Supplementing his statement, he explained that he decided to resign considering the development of the situation in Janpath Mantar and nationwide. He stated that anti-national forces should not exploit this situation, and the unity of the country must be preserved. Furthermore, he stressed that the future of any student should not be entangled in legal complications, and children should dedicate their time to studying and building careers.
