Naveen Patnaik Slams Police Action, Seeks Pradhan’s Resignation

Bhubaneswar: Former Odisha Chief Minister and BJD president Naveen Patnaik strongly criticised alleged police excesses against students protesting during the Chalo Sansad march in New Delhi.

Patnaik described the NEET‑UG paper leak as a “very serious” issue and demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Patnaik expressed concern that many young aspirants were injured during the demonstrations and directed BJD MPs to visit those admitted at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, assuring them of party support.

Earlier in the day, BJD MPs staged a protest at Vijay Chowk, demanding suspension of regular parliamentary proceedings to discuss the NEET‑UG paper leak and the handling of student protests.

A delegation led by Manas Mangaraj met injured students at RML Hospital, conveying Patnaik’s message of solidarity.

The BJD emphasised that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right and vowed to continue pressing for accountability in Parliament.