Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan received a hero's welcome from NDA MPs, just days after stepping down from the Union Cabinet amid the escalating NEET paper leak controversy. Pradhan entered Parliament to loud slogans, applause and a symbolic show of solidarity from NDA lawmakers, signalling the ruling alliance's continued support despite his resignation. According to Pradhan, his decision to step down was taken to prevent what he described as "anti-national forces" from exploiting the issue and to allow the government to focus on reforms. At the same time, the Opposition launched a fierce protest inside and outside Parliament. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra led demonstrations over the alleged police action against students during recent protests. Opposition MPs also raised "Shiksha Chori" slogans targeting Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding answers over the alleged police action during the July 20 student demonstrations and the criminal cases registered against protesters. WATCH

A political controversy has erupted after viral videos allegedly showing CJP leaders celebrating at a luxury hotel following Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation triggered a nationwide debate over the funding of the organization's agitation. Senior advocate Mahesh Jethmalani has publicly questioned how the CJP allegedly financed its nationwide protests, travel, accommodation and logistical operations, after videos surfaced online showing senior leaders, including Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, participating in what social media users described as a victory celebration at a five-star hotel. The viral clips, which have spread rapidly across social media platforms, have intensified scrutiny over the finances behind the 36-day agitation. Jethmalani questioned whether the organization should disclose the sources of funding used to sustain protests, nationwide mobilisation, hotel stays and other operational expenses. The controversy has grown further as several social media users also alleged that some CJP leaders appeared intoxicated during the celebration. WATCH