India: The Indian government is set to hold a fresh round of talks with leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Saturday as student-led protests over alleged examination paper leaks continue to intensify, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
What Are the Protesters Demanding?
The talks follow days of demonstrations in New Delhi, where protesters have demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and comprehensive reforms to India’s examination system.
CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the movement wanted a clear government response on the minister’s future.
“We need clarity on Dharmendra Pradhan’s future,” Ranka said, adding that protesters were seeking a definitive answer on whether the government would ask for the minister’s resignation.
The latest meeting comes after protest leaders warned federal ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh that demonstrations could expand if no action is taken.
The protests, which began over alleged leaks of question papers for competitive entrance examinations, have broadened to include concerns over youth unemployment, corruption, and government accountability.
How Has the Government Responded?
Authorities have continued security measures in the capital, including the closure of 18 Delhi Metro stations around the protest site.
According to Reuters sources, the government also extended the mobile internet shutdown in the area for a fifth consecutive day.
The restrictions follow clashes earlier this week in which police used batons and tear gas to disperse protesters attempting to march toward Parliament, leaving several students injured.
Despite the restrictions, thousands of demonstrators continued gathering in central Delhi, with protesters saying the shutdowns would not deter the movement.
The protests were triggered by alleged leaks of question papers for medical entrance examinations that forced more than 2 million candidates to retake their tests, fueling wider public criticism of India’s examination system.