Union minister for Education, Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday was met with jeers and screams at the backdrop of the recent controversies surrounding the National Eligibility and Entrance Test (NEET) UG and UGC NET exams.

Pradhan was among the other ministers to take oath as Lok Sabha members, which met for the first time after the polls.

Pradhan was welcomed with jeers by the opposition leaders who shouted “Neet” and “shame” as he walked up to take oath.

The opposition also demanded that Pradhan resign from his role as the union education minister over these controversies and a systematic failure.

Protests are being held by various student and parent organisations across the country over irregularities pertaining to NEET. Meanwhile, the centre has constituted an expert committee, chaired by Dr K Radhakrishnan. A CBI probe has been ordered in case of irregularities of these exams.

Meanwhile, taking to X (formerly Twitter), Pradhan said, “A privilege and an honour to represent Sambalpur in the 18th Lok Sabha. I recalled the proud moment of taking oath as a member of the 14th Lok Sabha, 20 years ago in 2004. During the last two decades, I also had the privilege to be a two-time member of Rajya Sabha.  

“While taking oath today, memories of the first day and the proud feeling of entering the Lok Sabha as a first-time member came afresh. Driven by the spirit of service and public welfare, I will continue to serve the people of Odisha and become their voice, particularly my constituents of Sambalpur, who are dear to my heart. Seeking the blessings of Lord Jagannath and Maa Samlei!”

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