Dharmendra Pradhan Hits Back at Rahul Gandhi Over NEET Row, Accuses Congress of Misleading Students

The political battle over the NEET-UG examination controversy has intensified, with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launching a sharp attack on Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Pradhan alleged that Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party are misleading NEET aspirants and creating unnecessary fear among the country's youth.

Responding to opposition demands for his resignation over allegations of irregularities and question paper leaks in the NEET-UG examination, Pradhan accused Congress of indulging in "cheap politics" over a sensitive issue. He stressed that the future of students cannot be used as a tool for political bargaining and urged political parties to act responsibly. The Union Minister also questioned the opposition's conduct, pointing out that a rally held in Kota, one of India's major coaching hubs, just days before the examination had negatively impacted students' morale. He further referred to a rally led by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in Bengaluru, which reportedly caused traffic disruptions, preventing three NEET candidates in Karnataka from reaching their examination centres on time. Kharge had later expressed regret over the incident. Pradhan asked how those responsible for creating difficulties for students could now claim to be champions of their cause. He also commented on the functioning of the National Testing Agency, stating that some individuals entrusted with responsibilities had failed in their duties. Describing the situation as one where "the protectors became the perpetrators," he acknowledged lapses in the system. However, Pradhan reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government would not compromise with the future of students and remains committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity in the examination system.