Two NEET Leaks and a Delayed Resignation
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Friday, ending a tenure marred by two major NEET paper leaks. According to a column by V Venkatesan, the resignation comes two years too late, as convention demanded his immediate exit after the first leak. Instead, a sustained youth movement ultimately pushed him out.
Convention vs. Reality
The columnist notes that political convention in India typically requires ministers to resign when serious irregularities occur in key exams under their watch. The first NEET paper leak occurred two years ago, yet Pradhan remained in office. A second leak further eroded public trust. The delay, Venkatesan argues, reflected a failure of accountability.
Youth Movement as Catalyst
It took a mobilized youth movement, comprising affected students and activists, to force Pradhan's exit. Protests and legal challenges highlighted the leaks' impact on thousands of aspirants. The movement gained momentum after the second leak, leading to sustained pressure on the government.
Reactions and Aftermath
Political reactions have been mixed. Opposition parties welcomed the resignation but criticized the delay, while the ruling party defended Pradhan's record. The education ministry now faces the task of restoring credibility to the NEET examination process. Venkatesan concludes that the episode underscores the growing power of grassroots youth activism in Indian politics.
