'Pralhad Joshi's Only Qualification Is RSS Background': Congress Slams Government's Choice for Education Minister

New Delhi: The Congress on Tuesday launched a fresh attack on the Narendra Modi-led government over the appointment of Pralhad Joshi as the Union Education Minister, claiming that his "only qualification" for the post is his background in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Addressing the media, Congress leaders questioned the government's decision, arguing that the education portfolio requires expertise in policymaking and institutional reforms. They alleged that ideological considerations had been given priority over professional qualifications in selecting the minister.

"Pralhad Joshi's only qualification is his RSS background," Congress leaders said, accusing the BJP of allowing ideological influence to shape the country's education system.

The criticism comes days after the Union Cabinet reshuffle that saw Joshi take charge of the Education Ministry following the resignation of his predecessor, Dharmendra Pradhan. The ministry is currently under intense public and political scrutiny amid ongoing debates over examination reforms, educational governance and institutional accountability.

The BJP swiftly rejected the Congress's allegations, describing them as politically motivated. Party leaders defended Joshi's appointment, pointing to his extensive parliamentary experience, multiple ministerial assignments and years of organisational work within the BJP.

Supporters of the government argued that Joshi has served in several key portfolios and possesses the administrative experience necessary to lead one of the country's most important ministries. They also maintained that the appointment reflects the Prime Minister's confidence in his ability to implement the government's education agenda.

The latest exchange adds to the escalating political confrontation over education policy. Opposition parties have repeatedly questioned the Centre's handling of examination-related controversies and broader education reforms, while the government has maintained that it is undertaking structural changes to improve transparency, quality and access across the sector.

Political analysts say the appointment of a new Education Minister is likely to remain a subject of intense debate as Parliament continues to witness heated discussions over educational policies, curriculum reforms and governance issues.

With both the Congress and the BJP hardening their positions, the controversy is expected to dominate political discourse in the coming days, particularly as the new minister begins outlining his priorities for the Education Ministry.