YS Sharmila Hails Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation, Says 'Next Should Be PM Modi'

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President YS Sharmila has welcomed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, calling it a significant victory for the united struggle of students and the sustained campaign led by Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

In a post on X, Sharmila praised students and young people who, she said, stood firm despite facing intimidation, legal cases, police action, and physical hardships during the protests. She commended their determination, stating that they refused to back down until the Union minister stepped down from office.

She described the resignation as a strong response to what she called the BJP government's arrogance, alleging that attempts to silence dissent and suppress democratic voices had ultimately failed. According to her, the development reflects growing public dissatisfaction with the Centre and serves as a setback for the ruling party.

Referring to the NEET question paper leak controversy, Sharmila alleged that the Union government made repeated efforts to conceal the issue and suppress the student movement. However, she said the strength of the youth forced the government to yield. She added that the episode demonstrates how students are prepared to hold those in power accountable when their future is put at risk.

Reaffirming the Congress party's stand, Sharmila said it would continue to fight alongside the people for the protection of democratic values, students' rights, and against policies it considers anti-people.

Concluding her remarks, she issued a sharp political statement, saying, "Dharmendra Pradhan has stepped down. The next to step down should be Prime Minister Narendra Modi."