NEW DELHI, July 22: The political battle over the NEET controversy intensified on Wednesday after the Congress launched a strong attack on Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing him of failing to address concerns of students and demanding accountability for issues linked to the country’s examination system.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh criticised Pradhan’s remarks against Rahul Gandhi and alleged that the minister had failed to protect the interests of millions of students affected by problems surrounding competitive examinations.
Ramesh claimed that the demand for Pradhan’s resignation was not linked to a single issue but was based on what he described as a series of failures during his tenure as Education Minister.
The Congress leader alleged shortcomings in the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA), citing past instances of examination irregularities, paper leaks and cancellations. He also accused the government of ignoring recommendations aimed at improving transparency in the examination process.
The remarks came after Pradhan defended the government’s position on the NEET issue and accused the Congress leadership of using students for political purposes during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Congress Targets Minister Over Examination Controversies
Ramesh alleged that under Pradhan’s leadership, the education sector had witnessed several challenges, particularly related to entrance examinations conducted by national agencies.
He referred to previous controversies involving alleged paper leaks and disruptions in major examinations, claiming that the government had failed to take adequate corrective measures.
According to Ramesh, instead of accepting responsibility, the minister had responded with political criticism and rejected opposition demands for reforms.
The Congress leader also accused the Education Ministry of not implementing recommendations made by parliamentary committees regarding improvements in the NTA’s functioning.
Allegations Over Higher Education Institutions
Apart from examination-related issues, Ramesh raised concerns about the administration of several central universities and educational institutions.
He alleged that appointments of vice-chancellors and senior officials were influenced by political considerations and claimed that some institutions had witnessed protests over allegations of administrative failures.
Ramesh mentioned universities including Banaras Hindu University, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi University and Allahabad University, alleging that students and faculty members had raised concerns over governance and transparency.
He further claimed that issues related to faculty appointments and institutional management required investigation.
Congress Raises Concerns Over CBSE Evaluation System
The Congress leader also highlighted allegations related to the procurement process of the On Screen Marking System (OSM) used in CBSE Class 12 board examinations.
Ramesh claimed that questions had been raised over the selection process of the company awarded the contract and alleged irregularities in the tender modifications.
He said an investigation committee was formed to examine the matter but questioned the lack of updates regarding its findings.
Claims of Irregularities in Autonomous Bodies
Ramesh further alleged irregularities in various autonomous organisations under the Education Ministry.
He referred to controversies involving institutions such as the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), the University Grants Commission (UGC) and other educational bodies, alleging that concerns over transparency and governance had emerged.
The Congress leader said these issues represented wider concerns within India’s higher education system and called for a detailed review of the ministry’s functioning.
Pradhan Accuses Congress of Politicising Student Issues
Responding to the opposition’s criticism, Dharmendra Pradhan defended the government’s approach and accused Congress leaders of turning student-related concerns into a political campaign.
Pradhan had earlier criticised Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other opposition leaders for staging a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence over the NEET issue.
The minister said the government was ready for a detailed discussion on examination-related matters in Parliament and maintained that every genuine concern raised by students would be addressed.
He accused the opposition of choosing public protests over democratic discussions and claimed that the Congress was attempting to create political controversy instead of seeking solutions.
Government Promises Reforms and Accountability
Pradhan said students deserved reforms, transparency and effective solutions rather than political confrontation.
He reiterated that the government remained committed to improving examination systems and addressing concerns raised by candidates.
The minister said discussions related to NEET and other education matters would continue through appropriate parliamentary channels.
Political Dispute Continues Over NEET Issue
The latest exchange has added another layer to the ongoing political dispute between the BJP-led government and the Congress over examination reforms and student concerns.
While the opposition continues to demand accountability from the Education Ministry, the government maintains that it is taking necessary steps to strengthen the examination framework.
With Parliament’s Monsoon Session underway, the NEET controversy is expected to remain a major issue of debate between the ruling party and opposition groups.