India Faces Political Pressure After Education Minister Resignation
NEW DELHI — Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Saturday after weeks of nationwide protests demanding his removal over exam paper leaks and irregularities in India’s education system, handing a major victory to the “Cockroach” movement.
Pradhan announced his decision on X, marking the first significant concession by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to one of the most visible waves of public dissent in recent years.
Thousands of protesters at New Delhi’s protest site celebrated the news, embracing each other and waving the Indian flag. “This had to be done. Someone must be held accountable,” said Prachi Kumar, a corporate employee who joined the demonstrations.
The movement began more than a month ago after allegations of leaks in some of India’s biggest entrance exams. It has since grown into a broader protest over unemployment, government accountability, and economic opportunities, drawing students, professionals, and families to rallies across the country.
The government had earlier sought to ease tensions by announcing fast-track courts for exam leak cases and legislation to strengthen measures against cheating. But protesters said the measures did not address government accountability and continued their campaign.
Police used tear gas and batons to disperse marchers on Monday, with several students injured. The Cockroach Janta Party, which launched the movement, declared victory but said their campaign would continue, seeking compensation for families of students who died by suicide after alleged leaks and action against police officers accused of excessive force.
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