India: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced his resignation on Saturday following weeks of nationwide student-led protests over examination paper leaks, marking a significant development in one of the biggest political challenges facing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
Why Did Dharmendra Pradhan Resign?
Pradhan said he had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing the ongoing unrest and the need to prevent the situation from being exploited.
“Considering the situation that has arisen at Jantar Mantar and across the country, so that anti-national forces do not take advantage of this situation … I have sent my resignation letter to the Prime Minister,” Pradhan said in a post on X.
He added that he respected the aspirations and legitimate expectations of India’s youth.
The announcement came as police used tear gas to disperse protesters in New Delhi, shortly before protest leaders were scheduled to hold another round of talks with government ministers.
How Did Protesters React?
The resignation was welcomed by leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), the youth-led movement spearheading the demonstrations.
“We have done it,” CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke told supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar, where thousands of protesters celebrated the announcement.
The protests began in June over alleged leaks of question papers for competitive entrance examinations and later expanded to include demands for greater government accountability, action against corruption, and improved employment opportunities.
Authorities continued to impose security measures on Saturday, including internet restrictions and the closure of 18 Delhi Metro stations, in an effort to contain demonstrations in the capital.
The protests have become one of the largest youth-led movements in India in recent years and represent a major political challenge for the Modi government.