Modi’s education minister quits as jubilant Indian youth protesters claim victory, end protest

Weeks of intense youth-led protests in India concluded Saturday with celebrations in the streets following the resignation of the education minister and government concessions on a cheating-prone exam system. The demonstrations, which had escalated into the most significant political crisis of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term, saw thousands march on parliament earlier this week, prompting police to use tear gas. Young voters are a crucial demographic for Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party. Protesters, who adopted the moniker "cockroaches," had taken to the streets since late June after national exam papers were leaked, affecting 2 million students and fueling widespread anger over job prospects. The resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a key demand, was unexpected given Modi's reputation for resisting pressure. The government faces crucial state elections next year, and similar youth movements have recently led to government changes in neighboring countries. Celebrations broke out at the Jantar Mantar protest site in Delhi, with thousands chanting victory slogans and dancing. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which spearheaded the movement, announced the end of protests. "We have done it," declared CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke to cheers, as the national anthem played and sweets were distributed.

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We have done it