‘Congratulations to India’: How politicians reacted to Pradhan's resignation

Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced his resignation, stating he submitted his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the future and career of students in mind. The move came after widespread calls for his resignation and significant student protests, particularly concerning the NEET exam paper leak.

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Huge congratulations to India's youth, the GenZ. Pradhan had to resign, this is a big win for democracy. The government never listened...but it had to bow down. The government should now understand that they will have to listen to people.

Political reactions to Pradhan's departure varied. Arvind Kejriwal, former Delhi chief minister and AAP leader, hailed the resignation as a "big win for democracy" and congratulated India's youth. He asserted that the government, despite initial reluctance, had to concede to public demand. Manish Sisodia, another AAP leader, argued that Pradhan's resignation was not voluntary but a result of student pressure, suggesting it should have happened earlier following the NEET paper leak.

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Dharmendra Pradhan did not voluntarily submit his resignation. The nation's children, the nation's students, secured Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. If this had been a voluntary resignation, it should have happened when the NEET paper leak occurred...The country needs a massive education revolution...

Conversely, BJP leader Amit Malviya emphasized Pradhan's long-standing dedication to education and student movements. Malviya highlighted Pradhan's belief in education as a tool for social transformation and national progress, thanking him for his service. BJP leader Manoj Tiwari urged students to end their protests now that their demands have been met, acknowledging the Prime Minister's firm stance.

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Long before he assumed office, his journey was deeply rooted in student movements and youth engagement. That experience gave him an enduring understanding of the aspirations, challenges and ambitions of young Indians. Throughout his public life, he remained steadfast in his belief that education is the most powerful instrument for social transformation and national progress.

The resignation underscores the intense scrutiny and public pressure surrounding the integrity of India's national entrance examinations. The NEET controversy, involving alleged paper leaks, has galvanized student groups and opposition parties, leading to significant political fallout for the government.

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The students' demands have been accepted, so the protest should now be withdrawn. Prime Minister's every word is firm and important.