Union Minister JP Nadda met with a delegation from the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on Friday to discuss NEET examination paper leaks.

The meeting marks a critical attempt by the government to quell escalating protests at Jantar Mantar, where activists have demanded systemic changes to India's medical entrance exams.

The talks took place at the Constitution Club in Delhi and lasted nearly two hours [1, 2]. During the session, the CJP delegation presented three key demands [1] and a five-point reform charter aimed at overhauling the examination process [2]. The government said it would provide a response to these demands by Friday [1, 2].

A primary point of contention remains the demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan [3, 4]. While reports indicate the government may be open to two of the group's demands, the CJP remains adamant regarding Pradhan's removal [2].

These negotiations follow a period of intense public pressure, including a 26-day hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk [3]. The strike concluded as the government moved to address the grievances of students, and educators affected by the alleged leaks.

To deter future misconduct, a cabinet decision has proposed strict penalties for those involved in paper leaks. The proposed sanctions include a 10-year jail term and a fine of ₹1 crore [5].

While some reports state the government would respond on Friday, other sources suggest a further round of talks may occur on July 25, 2026 [5].

“The government held a nearly two‑hour meeting with the CJP delegation.”

The government's willingness to negotiate and the proposal of severe criminal penalties suggest an effort to restore public trust in the NEET system. However, the CJP's insistence on a high-level resignation indicates that the protesters view the leaks not as a technical failure, but as a leadership crisis within the Education Ministry.