Former Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan received a grand reception in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday as thousands of BJP workers and supporters gathered at Biju Patnaik International Airport, transforming his arrival into a major political show of strength just days after his resignation from the Union Cabinet.
The airport witnessed a sea of party supporters carrying banners, placards and party flags while chanting slogans in support of the senior BJP leader. Tight security arrangements were put in place to manage the large gathering and ensure smooth movement around the airport and along the convoy route.
Supporters Gather in Large Numbers
Long before Pradhan’s arrival, BJP workers had assembled outside the airport, holding posters carrying his photographs and messages expressing solidarity. The atmosphere turned celebratory as supporters cheered, raised slogans and captured the moment on their mobile phones while welcoming the former Union minister.
The enthusiastic turnout highlighted the strong backing Pradhan continues to enjoy among BJP workers in his home state despite stepping down from the Education Ministry.
Second Public Reception After Resignation
The Bhubaneswar event came a day after Pradhan was accorded a warm welcome by BJP and NDA Members of Parliament in New Delhi.
During his arrival at Parliament, party colleagues felicitated him with traditional honours, while Pradhan responded to supporters by greeting them with folded hands. Speaking briefly on the occasion, he described himself as “a street fighter,” signalling his determination to remain active in public life.
Pradhan resigned from the Union Cabinet on July 25 following weeks of nationwide protests over the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination.
Congress Criticises BJP’s Celebration
The BJP’s public display of support triggered sharp political reactions from the Opposition.
Congress Rajya Sabha MP Renuka Chowdhury criticised the celebrations, questioning the party’s decision to organise a grand welcome for Pradhan despite his resignation.
The exchange has added another political dimension to the ongoing debate surrounding the NEET controversy, with both the BJP and Opposition continuing to trade accusations over the issue.
While political reactions remain divided, Tuesday’s gathering in Bhubaneswar underscored Pradhan’s continued influence within the BJP, with supporters turning his homecoming into one of the party’s biggest public mobilisations in Odisha in recent weeks.
