A political war of words has erupted between the Centre and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over issues related to students, competitive exams, and the education system.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan strongly criticised Rahul Gandhi after the Congress leader’s recent remarks on examination reforms and alleged irregularities. Pradhan accused Gandhi of spreading fear among students and trying to create unrest instead of offering constructive solutions.
The minister said Rahul Gandhi was “scaring students” through his statements and alleged that his politics was aimed at creating “anarchy” in the country. He claimed that the Congress leader was attempting to mislead young people for political gains.
“The Opposition has the right to ask questions. But three days before the exam, Rahul Gandhi held a programme in Kota to scare students, to derail students' preparations," Pradhan said.
“As Education Minister, I curse myself every time there is a student suicide. We have to fix the broken system. But the way Congress and Rahul Gandhi used student suicides is low level politics," he added.
The remarks came after Rahul Gandhi addressed students in Kota, Rajasthan, where he criticised the country’s education system. Gandhi described the current system as an “extortion machine” and alleged that students and their families spend enormous amounts on coaching and competitive exams. He also raised concerns over repeated examination related controversies and called for major reforms.
Responding to these comments, Pradhan defended the government’s efforts to improve the education sector. Attacking Gandhi for "politicising" student suicides, the Education Minister said he holds himself accountable but added that the Congress using student deaths for politics was "abhorrent". The minister also accused the Congress of politicising issues related to students and examinations.
The exchange comes amid an ongoing political debate over exam management, paper leak allegations, and the pressure faced by students preparing for competitive examinations. Both the ruling BJP and the Congress continue to blame each other over the handling of education related issues.
