NEW DELHI: Independent MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, captured attention at the oath-taking ceremony on Tuesday not just for his political stance but for a T-shirt that he was wearing. Representing Bihar’s Purnia, Yadav wore a t-shirt with “#Re-NEET,” text written on it making a clear statement about his stance on the NEET-UG examination.
Yadav’s unique approach extended beyond his clothing as he took the podium, he began his oath with the proclamation “Bihar Zindabad.” Upon concluding his oath, he started to delve into slogans speaking for the re-examination of NEET-UG and demanding special category status for Bihar.
Yadav has a long political career, having won elections in 1991, 1996, 1999, 2004, 2014, and now in 2024 from the Purnia and Madhepura constituencies of Bihar. He was also recognised as the best-performing MP in 2015, reflecting his enduring impact and popularity.
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His vocal demands, during the oath-taking ceremony, were opposed by the members of the treasury benches as they said, leaders speak beyond the podium than taking an oath. Yadav responded assertively, reminding them of his six-time electoral success and independence, stating, “I win alone, not like you who win with the blessings of the people.”
After the ceremony, Yadav addressed the media, speaking of the neglect of youth and student issues. He criticised other members for not addressing critical matters like the NEET-UG controversy and the need for Bihar’s special status. Other members take names of their leaders, gods, and others, but nobody talks about NEET students and special category status for Bihar. Hence, I did, he said.
The NEET-UG exam for entrance into various medical courses has been mired into controversy due to paper leaks, discrepancies in marks, and alleged irregularities in its conduct.