By Firstdespatch Desk Jul 26, 2026
Agartala, July 26 (FD) Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) President Asish Kumar Saha on Sunday described the reported resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as a "historic victory" for the country's students and youth, claiming that sustained nationwide protests led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi compelled the Centre to act.
Addressing the media, Saha alleged that Rahul Gandhi had spearheaded a nationwide campaign over the past month against irregularities in the examination system, particularly following the NEET paper leak controversy. He claimed that repeated examination paper leaks in recent years had seriously eroded the credibility of the country's education system and jeopardised the future of lakhs of students.
Saha said the Congress had consistently demanded accountability from the Central Government, sought the Education Minister's resignation, and called for comprehensive reforms to ensure a transparent and merit-based examination system. According to him, the movement was aimed at safeguarding students' interests and restoring public confidence in competitive examinations.
The TPCC chief further alleged that the BJP-led Central Government initially attempted to shield the Education Minister instead of addressing students' concerns. He claimed that when students and youth launched nationwide protests, the government responded with police action rather than constructive dialogue, leading to widespread public discontent.
"The resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan is a victory of the students' movement and a triumph of democracy. It reflects the determination of the country's youth who stood united for justice and transparency," Saha said.
He, however, asserted that the Congress would continue its agitation until those responsible for the alleged irregularities and the reported crackdown on protesting students are held accountable, the examination system undergoes comprehensive reforms, and adequate support is extended to the families of students who allegedly died by suicide.
Saha also demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologise to the nation over the issue. He said the outcome represented not only a victory for Rahul Gandhi but also for every student and young person who participated in the nationwide movement, congratulating them on what he described as a "historic victory."
The BJP and the Central Government had not responded to the allegations made by the Congress leader at the time of filing this report. FD JK