NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday congratulated the youth protesters after Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan tendered his resignation amid protest across the country over NEET paper leak.In a social media post on X, Rahul said that Pradhan’s resignation is a huge step in rebuilding the education system”Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is a huge step in rebuilding our education system. It’s a symbolic step because he was a symbol. But it is still a big step,” the Congress leader said. “And I want to congratulate every single student, every single youngster who came out on the streets and fought for democracy, fought for the future of this country and defended the Constitution.
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I’m proud of you. Well done,” he added.Accusing the government of “attacking India” and destroying the constitution, Rahul also the called on the youngsters for getting rid of the “regime.””It’s also a signal to other parts of society. Farmers, laborers, poor people. Anybody who this regime is attacking and oppressing. There is wisdom and courage in standing up. Daro Mat. Let’s get rid of this regime,” Rahul said. “This regime that is attacking India. Destroying our constitution, capturing all our institutions,” he added.Rahul also urged the government to fulfil the two remaining demands — action against the police officials who allegedly assaulted protesting students during CJP’s march to Parliament on July 20, and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”Let me remind the government. There is still two demands outstanding. The first one and most important one. Anybody who has raised a finger on our students, beaten them, shot at them. Has to be held accountable. People who’ve organised it, people who’ve implemented it. All have to be punished,” Rahul said.”And the final demand. That the Prime Minister of India. Out of respect for the students of India. Out of respect for the future of India. Has to apologise to the students who were brutalised and attacked. Thank you. Jai Hind,” he added.Earlier in the day, Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday announced his resignation, saying he was deeply pained by the developments of the past 10 days and wanted to ensure that anti-national forces did not exploit the situation arising from the controversy over examination irregularities.In his letter, Pradhan said, “For over four decades, I have dedicated myself to the cause of students, teachers, and educational reform. I have always believed that a robust, inclusive, and visionary education system forms the cornerstone of a strong nation.””I deeply respect the aspirations, sentiments, and legitimate expectations of the country’s youth. Realising the dreams of India’s young generation has been a moral commitment in our political and social lives. I express my gratitude to the Honourable Prime Minister for the opportunity to serve the nation under his visionary leadership,” he said.This comes amid nationwide protests demanding strict action against the paper leak and exam irregularities, following Education Minister Pradhan’s resignation, which he said was rooted in accountability.
