Rahul Gandhi Slams New Education Minister Pralhad Joshi

Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a fierce attack on the Centre over the appointment of Pralhad Joshi as India's new Education Minister. Gandhi questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision, accusing Joshi of defending those convicted in the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case.

Gandhi addressed reporters outside Parliament, stating that the Prime Minister had several options within his Cabinet but still chose a leader whose past remarks made him unfit for the education portfolio. Gandhi said, 'There can be no filthier man than somebody who says that rapists need protection. That is the Education Minister of India today.'

The Congress leader's remarks referred to statements attributed to Joshi during the political debate surrounding the release of convicts in the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case. Gandhi questioned why the Prime Minister appointed Joshi despite the availability of other senior ministers. 'It's a strange reaction from the Prime Minister. There are so many people in his Cabinet; he could have chosen anyone. But he chooses a person who protects rapists. Quite amazing,' he said.

The controversy comes just days after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Education Minister following weeks of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, examination irregularities, and the police crackdown on student demonstrators. Pralhad Joshi's appointment to the education portfolio has triggered fresh political exchanges, with the Opposition questioning both the timing and the government's choice.

The NEET-UG controversy, student protests, and alleged police excesses have become major flashpoints between the government and the Opposition during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The Centre has defended its handling of the examination crisis, while the Opposition continues to press for accountability and wider reforms in the education system.

Rahul Gandhi's remarks added to the heated exchanges dominating the Monsoon Session. The Congress leader's criticism of Joshi's appointment is likely to escalate the political temperature in the coming days. The Opposition's demand for accountability and reforms in the education system is expected to continue, with the government facing increasing pressure to address the concerns.

The Bilkis Bano gang-rape case has remained a flashpoint between the Opposition and the BJP. The case has sparked widespread outrage and debate over the handling of rape cases and the protection of victims' rights. The Opposition's criticism of Joshi's appointment is centered around his past remarks on the case, which they claim make him unfit for the education portfolio.

The education system in India has been under scrutiny in recent weeks, with the NEET-UG controversy and student protests highlighting the need for reforms. The Opposition's demand for accountability and wider reforms is likely to continue, with the government facing increasing pressure to address the concerns.

In conclusion, Rahul Gandhi's criticism of Pralhad Joshi's appointment as Education Minister has added to the heated exchanges dominating the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The controversy surrounding Joshi's past remarks on the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case has sparked widespread outrage and debate, with the Opposition demanding accountability and wider reforms in the education system.

The significance of this development lies in the fact that it highlights the deepening political divide in India. The Opposition's criticism of the government's handling of the education system and the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case has sparked a heated debate over the protection of victims' rights and the need for reforms. As the Monsoon Session of Parliament continues, it is likely that the political temperature will escalate, with the government facing increasing pressure to address the concerns of the Opposition and the public.