Protesters at Delhi's Jantar Mantar are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam [1].
The demonstrations signal a deepening crisis of confidence in India's national testing systems. By linking the paper-leak scandal to the Education Ministry, activists are pushing for systemic accountability rather than isolated administrative fixes.
The group, which includes CJP spokesperson Saurav Das, activist Sonam Wangchuk, and students from Rajasthan, is seeking 1 crore rupees in compensation for the families of students who died by suicide following the NEET paper leaks [1]. They are also demanding the withdrawal of six FIRs filed against demonstrators [4].
Despite the conclusion of a hunger strike, organizers said the protest will continue. The unrest has led to significant disruptions in the capital, including the closure of 18 Delhi Metro stations [2]. Police have also detained more than 25 students [3].
Government authorities have responded by suspending internet services near Jantar Mantar, with some disruptions reaching the High Court [3].
Talks between a CJP delegation and the government are scheduled to take place shortly at the Constitution Club of India [3, 5]. These discussions aim to address the grievances regarding the role of the Education Ministry in the scandal, and the broader policies implemented by Minister Pradhan [2].
The protesters said they will not cease their activities until the government meets their specific demands for compensation and official resignations [1].
“Protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.”
The escalation of the NEET protests from student grievances to a formal demand for a cabinet minister's resignation reflects a broader political movement. By involving high-profile activists like Sonam Wangchuk and the CJP, the movement has shifted from a request for exam reform to a challenge against the Education Ministry's governance. The government's decision to engage in talks at the Constitution Club suggests an attempt to contain the unrest before it gains further momentum among the student population.
