Following Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as Union Education Minister, several BJP leaders rallied behind him amid the controversy over the NEET-UG examination paper leak, praising his “integrity", “commitment" to education reforms, and years of public service.
BJP president Nitin Nabin said Pradhan played a pivotal role in reforming India’s education sector and implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He said Pradhan’s decision to step down reflected “the highest standards of integrity and selfless service in public life" and added that the party stood firmly with him.
Meanwhile, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju described Pradhan as a leader deeply committed to strengthening India’s education ecosystem. He said Pradhan consistently kept students at the centre of policymaking and thanked him for his “relentless service" and contribution to education reforms. “…Dharmendra ji, thank you for your relentless service, your commitment to reforms & your contribution to building a stronger India," he tweeted.
Minister Kiren Rijiju said that Pradhan’s decade-long journey is a testament to his lifelong commitment to public life and student welfare. He also appreciated Pradhan’s sincere efforts in strengthening India’s education ecosystem and keeping millions of students at the centre of every decision. Rijiju extended his best wishes to Pradhan for his continued journey in serving the nation with the same conviction and sincerity.
Further, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya highlighted Pradhan’s long association with student movements and said his tenure as education minister was marked by efforts to strengthen institutions and promote meaningful reforms. He acknowledged that no education system serving millions could be free from challenges and wished Pradhan success in the next phase of his public life.
“Leading the Ministry of Education is among the most demanding responsibilities in government. It requires balancing the interests of millions of students, teachers, parents and institutions while preparing the country for the future. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan approached this responsibility with conviction, dedication and a long-term vision," Malviya posted on X.
Senior BJP leader Ashok Chavan also lauded Pradhan’s dedication to students and education, saying he remained closely connected with the aspirations of young people throughout his political career. Chavan said leading the education ministry required balancing competing expectations and that Pradhan discharged the responsibility with conviction and perseverance.
“As Shri Dharmendra Pradhan steps down as India’s Education Minister, it is a fitting moment to acknowledge his long and enduring association with student movements and public life. Few leaders have remained so closely connected with the aspirations, anxieties and ambitions of young people throughout their political journey. His tenure reflected a sincere commitment to strengthening India’s education ecosystem and preparing it for the future, the BJP leader said.