Naveen Demands Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation

New Delhi: Biju Janata Dal President and Leader of the Opposition in Odisha Assembly Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him accountable for the recent controversy surrounding the alleged violence against student protesters.

Speaking to the media after meeting all BJD members of Parliament here, Naveen described the situation as “very serious” and “very grave,” alleging that a large number of young students had been violently attacked and injured during the protests.

Naveen said, “The situation, as you know, is very serious, very grave. A number of young students have been violently attacked and injured. Our MPs, the Biju Janata Dal MPs, have been to the hospitals to see them and have asked whatever they can do for these young people who have been injured by doing whatever they can”.

Naveen further claimed that the protests had spread beyond the national capital, with demonstrations taking place in several cities across India and even outside Indian embassies in various international capitals.

Referring to demands from several political parties seeking the resignation of the Union Education Minister, Naveen said the circumstances warranted accountability.

“As I said, this is a very serious matter, as you can see how the matter is in Delhi, and not only in Delhi but in various cities of India, and even before our embassies in various international capitals, I have to return for serious matters to Bhubaneswar tomorrow morning. But our MPs will very seriously take up the present matter”, he said.

“I have also been asked whether the Education Minister should resign. Many demands from many parties have come for his resignation. Like all these serious injuries of young people have been taking place. So under the circumstances, I think he should resign,” the BJD President added.