Rahul Gandhi Criticizes NEET Exam System, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Responds
In a heated exchange over the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) issue, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan faced strong criticism from the Opposition. When questioned about his potential resignation, Pradhan stated he serves “at the mercy of my leader” and emphasized that the government is “collectively answerable.”
Opposition’s Criticism
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav questioned the government’s response to alleged paper leaks in competitive exams, suggesting that this administration is setting new records in exam irregularities. “Students across the country are protesting. The investigation is leading to revelations, and arrests are being made. I have only one request: students will not get justice if this minister continues,” Yadav said.
In defense, Pradhan stated that results were made public as per Supreme Court directions. “I don’t want to do politics, but I have a list of how many paper leaks happened when Akhilesh Yadav was in charge (as Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister),” he added.
Rahul Gandhi’s Statement
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi delivered a sharp critique, asserting, “It’s obvious to the whole country that there is a very serious problem in our examination system. The minister has blamed everybody except himself. I don’t even think he understands the fundamentals of what is going on here.” Gandhi highlighted that many students believe the Indian examination system is fraudulent, suggesting that wealth can influence outcomes. He questioned what systemic changes the government plans to implement to address this issue.
Pradhan’s Response
Pradhan countered, asserting that he has the support of his constituency and does not need validation from Parliament members. “Lies will not become truth if you shout. The country’s examination system has been called rubbish. There cannot be a more unfortunate statement by the Leader of the Opposition. I condemn this.”
Pradhan also referenced past education reform bills introduced by former minister Kapil Sibal in 2010, questioning why a bill to prohibit unfair practices was withdrawn and insinuating it was due to pressure from private medical colleges.
Addressing Allegations
Pradhan defended the National Testing Agency (NTA), noting that it has conducted over 240 exams with more than 50 million students participating in the last seven years without evidence of paper leaks. He assured that the government is transparent and “hiding nothing.”
When Congress MP B Manickam Tagore asked if Pradhan would consider resigning amid the controversy, Pradhan reiterated, “I am at the mercy of my leader, whenever accountability comes, the government is collectively answerable to that.”
Context and Background
Dharmendra Pradhan, one of the BJP’s prominent leaders from Odisha, has served as a minister in all three Narendra Modi governments. He has faced increasing scrutiny in recent months over alleged irregularities in NEET and the subsequent cancellation of multiple exams.