NEW DELHI — Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has tendered his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, bowing to intense pressure from a month-long student movement led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over alleged NEET paper leaks and examination irregularities.
Pradhan announced his departure via a social media post on Saturday afternoon, shortly before a crucial round of talks between government representatives and student delegates. The resignation resolves a key sticking point that had stalled negotiations, as student groups at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar made his exit an absolute condition for discussions.
Strategic Shift & Negotiation Points
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Ministerial Departure: Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation to prevent further disruption to academic schedules and protect students from legal complications.
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Resolution of Deadlock: CJP leaders had refused to participate in the third round of talks until the government addressed the demand for the minister’s removal.
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Agitation Demands:
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Sacking of the Education Minister (Accomplished).
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Guarantee of zero legal prosecution against participating student activists.
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Financial assistance and compensation for families impacted by NEET-related suicides.
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Ground Reaction: News of the resignation prompted celebrations among student groups at Jantar Mantar and coordinated protest hubs nationwide.
Development Snapshot
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Resigning Cabinet Member: Dharmendra Pradhan (Ministry of Education)
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Lead Organizing Body: Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) & Allied Student Groups
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Core Issue: NEET examination paper leak allegations and administrative lapses
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Primary Site: Jantar Mantar, New Delhi
