Did Sharad Pawar influence Dharmendra Pradhan's exit? NCP(SP) chief breaks silence
NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar claimed he urged Prime Minister Modi to address the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, which eventually led to the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Pawar framed the resignation as a victory for student protests and democratic dialogue.
Why it matters
The resignation of a high-ranking minister following public pressure marks a significant shift in Indian political accountability regarding examination integrity.
NEW DELHI: Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday said he had personally met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged him to initiate a dialogue over the NEET-UG paper leak controversy. He said he had appealed to PM Modi to either accept Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation or address the concerns of the protesting students. His remarks came hours after Pradhan resigned as education minister following weeks of nationwide protests over the alleged examination irregularities.Speaking to reporters, Pawar said he had requested the Prime Minister to engage with the students rather than allow the situation to escalate."I personally met the Prime Minister and requested him to engage in dialogue, because in a democracy, communication is essential. If dialogue does not take place, it leads to adverse consequences. I had urged that discussions should begin immediately.
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