India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned Saturday following weeks of student-led protests over alleged leaks and irregularities in the country's competitive entrance exams. Pradhan announced his resignation on the social media platform X, a move that represents a significant concession by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.
The protests, spearheaded by a movement known as “Cockroach,” began over a month ago amid allegations of leaks in major entrance exams. The movement evolved into broader demonstrations addressing unemployment, government accountability, and economic opportunities, drawing students, professionals, families, and activists to rallies across India.
News of Pradhan's resignation led to celebrations among protesters who had been camped in New Delhi. Participants cited the need to restore accountability within the education system. The Cockroach Janta Party, which initiated the protest movement, declared the resignation a victory for democracy.
The demonstrations have presented a persistent challenge to Modi's government, with protesters returning to the streets despite police dispersing marches using tear gas and batons. Tensions escalated earlier in the week when police intervened to disperse protesters marching toward Parliament, resulting in injuries to several students.
In an earlier attempt to de-escalate the situation, the government announced the establishment of fast-track courts for exam paper leak cases and stated its intention to introduce legislation to strengthen measures against cheating and corruption. However, these measures did not satisfy the protesters, who argued they did not address government accountability.
While Pradhan's resignation fulfilled their primary demand, protest leaders indicated that their campaign would continue. They are seeking compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide after exam paper leaks and are calling for action against police officers accused of excessive force during the protests.