Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president on Saturday congratulated students and youth protesters after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister amid nationwide outrage over alleged paper leaks.
Describing it as a victory for young people, the former Odisha chief minister stressed the importance of accountability and sensitivity to public opinion.
Naveen, who is also the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Odisha Assembly, said that nobody is above the will of the people and their voices, especially of the youth, deserve to be heard.
”I congratulate the young people of India, especially the Gen Z for this victory. Accountability and sensitivity to public opinion are integral values of a strong democracy. Nobody is above the will of the people. Voices of our people especially of the youth, deserve to be heard. The future of India belongs to the youth. I wish them all the best,” Naveen said in a post on X.
It may be noted that Naveen had earlier demanded Dharmendra’s resignation over the alleged examination irregularities, paper leak and attack on protesting students.
Notably, Dharmendra submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier on Saturday, stating that the decision was taken to protect students’ future and maintain the integrity of examinations.
“For over four decades, I have dedicated myself to the cause of students, teachers, and educational reform. I have always believed that a robust, inclusive, and visionary education system forms the cornerstone of a strong nation,” he said, while announcing his resignation in a post on X.
His resignation came after weeks of protests by students across the country demanding strict action against paper leaks and alleged irregularities in competitive exams.
