India's Education Minister Resigns Amid 'Cockroach Party' Protests Over Exam Leak Scandal

India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned amid widespread protests and a scandal involving alleged leaks of examination materials. The "Cockroach Party," a protest movement demanding educational reforms, spearheaded calls for his departure.

The controversy centers on a medical entrance exam taken by over 2.2 million candidates on May 3. Suspicions of leaks led to the exam's cancellation and a re-examination weeks later. The situation has reportedly driven more than 20 young people to suicide, fueling public anger and a sense of moral responsibility attributed to the education minister.

The "Cockroach Party" gained prominence after the Supreme Court's chief justice used the term "cockroaches" to describe young, unemployed activists and citizen journalists. While the judge later clarified he meant individuals with "false and worthless diplomas," the remark ignited outrage. The movement, largely composed of young people, is compared to Generation Z protest movements that have influenced political change in other countries, such as Nepal in 2025.

These demonstrations represent a significant challenge for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Initially, the government ignored the protests but later engaged in talks with the "Cockroach Party" leaders. They assured that the protesters' demands, including educational system reforms, would be considered. A parliamentary debate and reforms to the examination system were proposed. Ultimately, Pradhan's resignation was accepted.

The surge in the "Cockroach Party's" popularity reflects the deep frustration among India's youth. They claim that exam paper leaks are frequent and express dissatisfaction with the job market, where finding employment is increasingly difficult. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized Modi, calling him the most anti-youth prime minister in India's history.