Dharmendra Pradhan Addresses Youth Concerns Post NEET Controversy
Pradhan's First Speech After Resignation
File image of former Union Minister Dharmesh Pradhan. (Photo: X)
Bhubaneswar, Aug 9: In his initial address following his resignation amid student protests related to the NEET paper leak issue, former Union Minister and prominent BJP figure Dharmendra Pradhan expressed concerns about attempts to mislead the younger generation.
During an event at Gangadhar Meher University in Sambalpur on Saturday, Pradhan remarked, “I believe that some individuals have sought to mislead our Gen Z.”
The MP from Sambalpur emphasized that his role as a minister was never about personal prestige, asserting that the nation's interests should always take precedence.
He highlighted that nearly 200 million young individuals from Gen Z represent the driving force that will enable India to achieve its aspiration of becoming a ‘Vishwaguru’.
Pradhan stated that if these youths unite with resolve, his own contributions would pale in comparison to their collective strength.
The BJP leader mentioned that he had shared this perspective with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who then opted to connect directly with the youth.
He also drew parallels between today’s youth and the freedom fighters of the past, noting that they were the Gen Z of their era.
In a light-hearted moment, Pradhan acknowledged that he too had been influenced by Gen Z.
Earlier that day, while speaking at a public event in Sambalpur, he expressed gratitude for the support of Lord Jagannath and the people of Odisha, stating that he had served as a Union Minister for 12 years without tarnishing the state's reputation.
“Dharmendra Pradhan has never caused 4.5 crore Odias to feel ashamed. With the blessings of Lord Jagannath and Maa Samaleshwari, I will ensure that I never harm the honor of our state, regardless of my contributions,” he affirmed.