Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan returned to Parliament just two days after resigning over the NEET examination controversy, receiving loud chants of “Dharmendra Pradhan Zindabad” from BJP-NDA MPs while Opposition members protested and criticized the celebration. The contrasting reactions turned his first appearance after stepping down into one of the most talked-about moments of the Monsoon Session.BJP-NDA MPs Welcome Pradhan with ‘Zindabad’ SlogansAs Dharmendra Pradhan arrived at the Parliament complex, BJP and NDA lawmakers gathered to welcome him. Several MPs raised slogans of “Dharmendra Pradhan Zindabad,” escorted him into the building, and reportedly presented him with a ceremonial cap and shawl as a public display of support.The welcome came despite Pradhan’s resignation on July 25 following weeks of nationwide protests linked to the alleged NEET paper leak. The reception was widely viewed as a signal that the BJP leadership continues to stand behind the senior leader even after he left the Union Cabinet.Opposition Hits Back Over the CelebrationThe Opposition reacted sharply to the scenes outside Parliament. Congress and other opposition MPs questioned the decision to celebrate a leader who resigned amid a major education controversy.Several MPs raised slogans criticizing the government’s handling of the examination system and argued that the focus should remain on accountability and reforms rather than political celebrations. The exchange led to heated scenes in and around the Parliament premises as both sides traded slogans.Resignation Followed Weeks of Student ProtestsDharmendra Pradhan resigned after sustained nationwide demonstrations over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Student groups and youth organizations had demanded accountability, while the government announced plans to introduce reforms aimed at strengthening the public examination system.The Centre has since proposed legislative changes and formed a high-level task force to recommend long-term reforms for competitive examinations, following intense public pressure.Political Significance of the Parliament ShowdownMonday’s events highlighted the sharp political divide over the NEET controversy. For the BJP, the enthusiastic welcome underscored confidence in Pradhan’s political standing despite his resignation. For the Opposition, the celebration became another opportunity to accuse the government of failing to adequately address students’ concerns.With Parliament debating education reforms and the proposed anti-paper leak legislation, the controversy is expected to remain a key issue in the ongoing Monsoon Session.
