New DELHI, AUGUST 9: Breaking his silence over his departure from the Union Cabinet, former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that safeguarding the interests of the younger generation was his primary consideration when stepping aside. The Sambalpur MP declared that a ministerial role was never more important than addressing the genuine aspirations of millions of young scholars.
Reflecting on the widespread agitations triggered by alleged examination irregularities, Pradhan observed that external attempts were made to mislead students during the unrest. Speaking to an audience at GM University, the former minister affirmed that India’s large young population will play a decisive role in shaping the nation’s progress, noting that twenty crore children have been born over the past decade.
The senior leader stepped down from his portfolio following protests at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and persistent demands for accountability from opposition groups. Pradhan revealed that he personally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to accept his resignation, emphasizing that his decision was guided by a desire to keep student welfare above political office.
Addressing local political opposition during a public gathering in Rairakhol, where rival party workers held demonstrations, Pradhan asserted his deep roots in the region. He maintained that protests would not discourage him from actively visiting and working for the state, adding that he remains committed to upholding the dignity of Odisha.
Opposition representatives voiced criticism over the government’s response during the student agitation. Former state minister Rohit Pujari asserted that improper policy execution had placed severe pressure on students, arguing that public dissatisfaction arose from how the overall administration managed the situation.
