Karnataka Minister Claims Pradhan's Resignation Forced by Student Protests, Not Remorse

Bengaluru, July 27: Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge alleged on Saturday that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation was not an act of accountability over the NEET paper leak but resulted from sustained nationwide protests by students. He claimed that neither Mr. Pradhan nor Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed remorse despite the Centre acknowledging the leak in May.

Addressing reporters, Mr. Kharge noted that Mr. Pradhan's resignation letter did not accept responsibility but cited prevention of exploitation by 'anti-national forces'. He said the resignation was forced by student protests. Mr. Kharge outlined a timeline: NEET exam on May 3, complaints on May 7, NTA approaching police on May 8, acknowledgement of leak on May 15, and resignation on July 25. He alleged that lakhs of students faced admission uncertainty, several died by suicide, and many went on hunger strike while the Centre delayed action.

Mr. Kharge urged the Prime Minister to make a statement in Parliament, apologise to students, and present education sector reforms. Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said the Congress would continue protests until student concerns were addressed. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah called the resignation a victory for students and democracy but said deeper problems remain, asserting that the Prime Minister's removal is necessary for education system repair and democratic survival. KPCC president B K Hariprasad described it as a victory for students' agitation but demanded resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, withdrawal of cases against protesters, and compensation for families of students who died by suicide.

State BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra said Mr. Pradhan resigned voluntarily to prevent the Congress from misusing student protests for political ends. He accused the Congress of playing a 'wretched game' unmindful of the explosive situation in the national capital.

The developments highlight political divisions over the handling of the NEET paper leak, with the Congress demanding accountability and the BJP defending the resignation as voluntary. Student protests continue to demand systemic reforms and justice.