Dharmendra Pradhan’s first remarks since resignation: ‘Gen Z belongs to us’

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned amid protests over the NEET paper leak issue, emphasized that his ministerial responsibilities were of lesser importance compared to the aspirations of the younger generation. During an address in his parliamentary constituency of Sambalpur, Pradhan stated that he attempted to communicate the resolve of the younger generation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who engaged with them directly.

Pradhan, hailing from a region where legends such as Bhimabhoi, Gopabandhu Das, and Gangadhar Meher hailed from, affirmed that his duty was subordinated to the nation's welfare. He praised the new generation, asserting that their ambitions should not be disregarded. Pradhan warned that some individuals attempted to mislead the Gen Z, but stressed that around 20 crore young people in the country bear a significant responsibility to elevate India to the status of a global leader.

The former minister highlighted the historical role of the youth, citing sacrifices made by freedom fighters like Veer Surendra Sai. Pradhan, a leading figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party from Odisha, was met with enthusiastic support as he traveled to Sambalpur, where party members warmly welcomed him. Following his resignation as education minister on July 25, Pradhan vowed to tour Odisha in the coming days.