New Delhi: The BJP on Saturday rallied behind outgoing Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, praising his contribution to educational reforms and student welfare, and describing his resignation as an act of integrity that placed national and student interests above politics.

Senior BJP leaders and Union ministers lauded Pradhan's role in implementing education reforms, particularly the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, following his resignation amid nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak.

BJP president Nitin Nabin said Pradhan had played a "pivotal role" in transforming India's education landscape and successfully implementing the landmark NEP 2020.

"Prioritising larger interests, his decision to step down reflects the highest standards of integrity and selfless service in public life. The party stands firmly with Shri Dharmendra Pradhan Ji in this decision," Nabin said in a post on X.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju described Pradhan's political journey as a testament to lifelong engagement with public life and student welfare.

"Having worked alongside him in the Union Cabinet, I have seen his sincere dedication to strengthening India's education ecosystem and keeping our millions of young students at the centre of every decision," Rijiju said, adding that leading such a critical ministry required perseverance and vision.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh said Pradhan's tenure reflected a strong commitment to strengthening the country's education ecosystem.

"As Dharmendra Pradhan steps down as India's education minister, it is a moment to acknowledge his deep and enduring connect with students and public life," Singh said, adding that Pradhan had consistently kept students' aspirations at the centre of policymaking.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said Pradhan had demonstrated commitment, discipline and a deep connect with the aspirations of India's youth throughout his public life.

He said education reforms required persistence, consultation and faith in the transformative power of learning, qualities Pradhan brought to the ministry.

BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde said Pradhan had consistently accorded the highest importance to education since beginning his public life through student movements.

He wished Pradhan success in his future public responsibilities and expressed confidence that his commitment to the goal of "Viksit Bharat 2047" would continue.

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari said the resignation reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sensitivity towards students and youth.

He termed the decision an unprecedented gesture demonstrating the government's willingness to go to any extent to safeguard the interests of students and the younger generation.

Pradhan resigned on Saturday following weeks of nationwide protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which had demanded his removal over the alleged NEET paper leak issue.