Pradhan backs NCERT’s Emergency chapter for students
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday justified the National Council of Educational Research and Training’s (NCERT) decision to introduce a chapter on the Emergency in social science textbooks. Speaking at a function in Chandigarh marking the anniversary of the Emergency’s imposition, Pradhan said the NCERT had acted correctly because future generations need to know, read, and understand the dark deeds of the Emergency. He added that this step would help prevent a similar situation from recurring.
Emergency described as darkest day in Indian democracy
Addressing an event organised by the Chandigarh BJP, Pradhan called June 25, 1975, the darkest day in Indian democracy when the then Congress government attacked the Constitution, democratic institutions, and civil liberties to retain power. He emphasised that India is not merely a geographical entity but a civilisation with thousands of years of cultural heritage and democratic traditions. He remarked that India’s democratic ethos is deeply rooted in its civilisational values, making it the ‘mother of democracy’.
NEET re-examination held successfully, says Pradhan
On the NEET re-examination, the Education Minister stated that the exam was held successfully on June 21. He claimed that some people tried to instil fear in students but failed, as over 20 lakh candidates appeared for the exam. Those who sought to create anarchy are now dejected, he added.
Pradhan calls for Punjab CM’s resignation over video controversy
Responding to a question about a video controversy involving Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Pradhan said Mann should resign on moral grounds because the matter is deeply religious and transcends politics. He alleged that frustrated elements in society cannot see the nation progress.
BJP leaders honour democracy warriors
During the programme, Pradhan honoured democracy warriors and senior BJP leaders Desh Raj Tandon, Jatinder Chopra, Om Prakash Ahuja, Surinder Mahajan, and Dharamvir by presenting ceremonial shawls. BJP Chandigarh president Jatinder Pal Malhotra, Rajya Sabha MP Rekha Verma, and former MP Satya Pal Jain also addressed the gathering.
Protests by Youth Congress and NSUI
Earlier, workers of the Youth Congress and NSUI held protests before the event, demanding Pradhan’s resignation over the paper leak incident. Barricades were installed on both sides of the roads in Sector 18, Chandigarh, to prevent protesters from advancing.
