India's education minister resigns amid youth protests over exam leaks

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned Saturday, yielding to a significant youth protest movement that had demanded his departure over examination paper leaks. The move marks a major victory for the demonstrators and a political flashpoint for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

"We have done it," declared Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, which spearheaded the protests, to jubilant crowds at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar protest site. Pradhan announced his resignation on X, stating, "I deeply respect the aspirations, feelings, and legitimate expectations of the country’s youth." He cited the need to prevent anti-national forces from exploiting the situation.

“

We have done it

The protests, largely driven by young people, have simmered since June but escalated dramatically after police used tear gas and batons against students marching on parliament. The demonstrations highlight widespread anger over leaked exam papers, job scarcity, corruption, and a perceived lack of government accountability. Authorities attempted to quell the unrest by restricting internet access and closing metro stations in the capital.

Pradhan's resignation came as police fired tear gas to disperse protesters near the Jantar Mantar site, just hours before leaders were scheduled for further talks with ministers. Young protesters responded with patriotic slogans like "Jai Hind."

“

I have sent my resignation letter to the Prime Minister. I deeply respect the aspirations, feelings, and legitimate expectations of the country’s youth.