Cockroach’ protests end in stunning victory
India’s Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Saturday after days of youth-led protests over alleged irregularities in major entrance examinations.
The resignation came as thousands of young people gathered in New Delhi and other parts of the country under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).
The protesters had demanded Pradhan’s removal and major reforms to the country’s examination system. They also raised wider concerns about unemployment and limited opportunities for young people.
Pradhan confirmed that he had submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a statement, he said he was deeply concerned about the events of the previous 10 days.
He said the decision was not about personal prestige. He added that India’s youth were an important strength of the country and said efforts were needed to prevent young people from becoming trapped in uncertainty.
The announcement immediately triggered celebrations at the main protest site at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke told the cheering crowd, “We have done it.” Hundreds of protesters responded with loud applause and celebrations.
The CJP later announced that its demands had been accepted following talks with the government. It said the protests would therefore be called off.
The movement had focused on alleged irregularities in examinations, including concerns over the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). Protesters demanded greater transparency and accountability in the examination system.
They also called for compensation for people affected by examination irregularities. Another demand was the withdrawal of legal cases against protesters.
The government held two rounds of talks with CJP representatives during the week. However, the discussions initially failed to produce an agreement.
Pradhan submitted his resignation before a third round of talks was scheduled.
The protests also faced a strong response from police. Authorities used tear gas and batons when demonstrators attempted to march from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament.
The campaign gradually expanded beyond examination issues. Protesters also highlighted unemployment, lack of opportunities for young people and broader concerns about governance.
The demonstrations became one of the most significant challenges to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government since his re-election in 2024.
India’s opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also backed the protesters. He described Pradhan’s resignation as a major development and urged Modi to apologise to students and address their concerns.
Gandhi also called for action against those accused of violence against students during the demonstrations.
The resignation brought an emotional response from protesters. One 27-year-old participant who visited the protest site for the first time on Saturday described the atmosphere as highly charged, particularly after the minister’s resignation.
