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Rahul Gandhi alleged that Joshi had defended those convicted in the Bilkis Bano case and said such a person should not hold the education portfolio.
Pralhad Joshi replaced Dharmendra Pradhan as the Union Education Minister following weeks of student protests, mainly led by Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi, calling him a “defender of rapists” and questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to appoint him to the post.
Speaking to reporters in the Parliament complex, Gandhi alleged that Joshi had defended those convicted in the Bilkis Bano case and said such a person should not hold the education portfolio.
“The BJP puts a man who is a defender of rapists. That is the most filthy type of man. There can be no filthier man than somebody who says that rapists need protection. That is the Education Minister of India today,” Gandhi said.
He further questioned the Prime Minister’s choice, saying there were several other ministers who could have been entrusted with the responsibility.
“It’s a strange reaction from the PM. There are so many people in his Cabinet, he could have chosen anyone of them. But he chooses a person who protects rapists. Quite amazing,” Gandhi added.
#WATCH | Delhi: Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi says, “Education Minister of India – the BJP puts a man who is a defender of rapists. That is the most filthy type of man. There can be no flithier man than somebody who says that rapists need protection. That is the Education Minister… pic.twitter.com/7YXzD79lIR— ANI (@ANI) July 28, 2026
Joshi was appointed Union Education Minister after Pralhad Joshi replaced Dharmendra Pradhan, whose resignation followed weeks of student protests led primarily by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).
Priyanka Gandhi Raises Bilkis Bano Issue in Lok Sabha
Earlier during proceedings in the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also questioned Joshi’s appointment, referring to remarks she alleged he had made regarding the release of convicts in the Bilkis Bano case.
“The Prime Minister appointed a new Education Minister, a person who expressed consent and even happiness over the release of those convicted of raping a pregnant woman,” Priyanka Gandhi said during the debate.
Her remarks triggered strong objections from the treasury benches.
BJP Seeks Apology, Calls Remarks Character Assassination
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju objected to Priyanka Gandhi’s comments, accusing her of engaging in character assassination.
“This amounts to character assassination within Parliament, and we do not expect such language. These statements should be expunged from the record. Such language should not be used. She should apologise to the House,” Rijiju said.
Responding in the Lok Sabha, Joshi rejected the allegations and challenged Priyanka Gandhi to substantiate her claims.
“Priyanka ji should have authenticated her statements. Action should be taken regarding the misinformation being spread. Can one simply say anything and get away with it?” he said.
The Education Minister categorically denied the accusations and demanded action against the Congress MP.
“I refute these allegations. She should be expelled and must apologise,” Joshi said.
About the Author
Saurabh Verma is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18.com, specializing in Indian politics, national current affairs, and breaking global news. With years of experience tracking power shifts, election strateg…Read More
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