India's education minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, resigned last month following youth protests sparked by the leaking of medical school entrance exam question papers, an event described as an example of democracy in action.
India's education crisis has escalated into a significant political challenge for Prime Minister Modi, culminating in the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This follows weeks of nationwide protests over issues related to the NEET examination.
Despite government efforts, the chaos of protests continues in India, with law-abiding citizens bearing the cost while bureaucracy persists. The resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan has settled the issue of political accountability for paper leaks, but questions remain.
India's opposition parties have attacked the ruling BJP over the felicitation of Dharmendra Pradhan, sarcastically remarking that he was 'garlanded as if he won a war'.
An opinion piece discusses the disparity in India's age requirements, noting that while Gen Z can vote and hold bureaucratic positions, they cannot contest elections before age 25.
An Indian minister resigned following widespread "Cockroach Protests" by the CJP, who are now threatening to resume demonstrations if cases against protestors are not withdrawn. The minister faced jeers in Parliament after his resignation.
The CJP called off its nationwide protest on July 25 after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned and the Centre assured the outfit that its demands would be considered.
WorldbloombergFTAl Jazeera+11berlingskeSCMPnational-postTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-expressjapan-timesKorea Herald+3 more29d ago14 sources
Pralhad Joshi has assumed office as India's new education minister, succeeding Dharmendra Pradhan. His appointment follows a period of student protests and discussions surrounding educational policies.
Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned as India's education minister following widespread student protests, dubbed the 'Cockroach' movement. Pralhad Joshi has been appointed as his successor.
PoliticsNYTFTThe Guardian+10Al JazeeraFrance 24NHK Worlddennik-npolitikenTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+2 more1mo ago13 sources
India's government has introduced a new anti-cheating law and Prime Minister Modi has engaged with students on social media following weeks of widespread protests by young people over alleged exam paper leaks and unemployment. The protests, which gained significant traction online, have led to some concessions from the government.
Several Delhi University colleges initially backed Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on social media amidst protests, though some later removed their posts and issued apologies.
A satirical online group, the 'Cockroach People's Party,' has grown in influence across India, with young Indians continuing to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Rahul Gandhi has expressed strong support for students protesting against alleged paper leaks in the NEET examination, setting 'non-negotiable' demands for Prime Minister Modi and Dharmendra Pradhan. Other politicians, including Shashi Tharoor, have also voiced concerns about students being betrayed by the system.
Social activist Anna Hazare has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to accept a minister's resignation amid ongoing protests. Hazare stated that a single minister's resignation would not cause the government to fall.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has criticized Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party's protests, stating that 'we owe students more than outrage.' Pradhan's comments came in response to Gandhi's remarks on student issues.
Sonam Wangchuk continues his fast, with doctors reporting stable vital parameters but flagging persistent medical concerns. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has requested his medical reports as protests continue.
Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan met with a student amidst widespread demands for his resignation following the NEET exam leak, a day after activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike.
An AAP leader, speaking from a CJP protest, took a dig at the BJP by suggesting that Smriti Irani should not be appointed in place of Dharmendra Pradhan, as the CJP announced a march to Parliament.
Uddhav Thackeray has called for the resignation of India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, citing issues related to the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
Activist Sonam Wangchuk is on a hunger strike, reportedly losing weight and experiencing low blood pressure, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG paper leak deaths.
The Indian National Congress has initiated a 40-day campaign, ‘Chhatron ki Goonj’, calling for the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan and a comprehensive overhaul of examination procedures following the NEET exam leak scandal.
A campaign titled 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' is underway across India, with 28 leaders, including Gaurav Gogoi and Priyank Kharge, addressing press conferences to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan.
A viral student movement in India, led by Abhijeet Dipke, is organizing further protests and threatening an indefinite sit-in in New Delhi from June 20 if Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan does not resign.
The 'Cockroach Janta Party' is protesting in Pune, India, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged exam irregularities.
PoliticsTimes of Indiaindian-express2mo ago2 sources
Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has assured 'zero error' in the NEET UG re-test and timely results. He reviewed the National Testing Agency's readiness, emphasizing tightened security and coordination for the examination.
India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has reviewed the draft mental health policy for schools, indicating a focus on addressing mental well-being among students.
Students are protesting outside the education ministry, demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, with a petition signed by 8 lakh people and claims of 1 crore affected individuals. The protest is being supported by the CJP founder, who returned from the US to join the demonstration.
Dharmendra Pradhan defended the on-screen marking system while owning up to glitches and assuring that CBSE re-evaluation complaints would be addressed.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has instructed Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) banks to enhance their payment gateway systems following glitches experienced during CBSE transactions.
Rahul Gandhi is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG 2026 controversy, vowing continued protests until a foolproof system is implemented to prevent future paper leaks. Coaching class associations also plan protests.
Rahul Gandhi has demanded Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET paper leak, accusing the Centre of neglecting student concerns.
Amid the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has ordered a foolproof re-test and significant institutional and technological reforms for the NTA, including hiring a CTO.
Rahul Gandhi has labeled the education ministry a 'department of disasters,' criticizing Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for failing students amidst issues like the NEET paper leak and CBSE's OSM evaluation.
Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced that the NEET 2027 exam will be conducted in Computer Based Test mode, while the CBI will investigate the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over comments regarding Jadavpur University, alleging institutional decline in the state.
Indian minister Dharmendra Pradhan asserted that Ujjain, not Greenwich, is the original time centre, calling for an end to the 'Macaulay mindset' in India.
Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed his regret today over the inclusion of the controversial chapter on judiciary in schoolbooks, saying he holds the judiciary in "highest regard" and has…
Dharmendra Pradhan, India's former education minister, spoke for the first time since his resignation, stating he "suffered" due to Gen Z, who led protests against him.
An analysis explores the implications of Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, framing it as a victory for both the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Indian government is prosecuting protesters, while former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was welcomed in parliament after resigning due to a major scandal, highlighting ongoing political tensions.
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi criticized the BJP for celebrating Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned over the weekend, with garlands and slogans, despite the deaths of 21 students.
Protests are escalating worldwide, with demonstrations against mass tourism on Mallorca turning violent and Gen Z protesters in India influencing political debate. Meanwhile, Pakistan-administered Kashmir holds elections amidst protests, and Albanian police are accused of brutality during parliamentary gatherings.
BJP Members of Parliament enthusiastically welcomed Dharmendra Pradhan to Parliament, chanting 'Dharmendra Pradhan zindabad.' This reception occurred amidst criticism from the Congress party.
A social media post by the daughter of Odisha BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi, welcoming Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, caused discontent among party workers and leaders.
PoliticspublicoobservadorTimes of India+6hindustan-timesindian-expressndtvbalkan-webexpress-tribunehavana-times1mo ago9 sources
Opposition parties and the CJP protest movement are demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, leading to a parliamentary stalemate and calls for tougher action.
Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his 26-day hunger strike protesting exam leaks, though the 'Cockroach Movement' and other youth protests are vowing to continue their demonstrations. Wangchuk's decision clears the way for potential talks between protest leaders and the government.
Abhijeet Dipke, a student activist, has called for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to join protests at Jantar Mantar, questioning why sacking one minister is a major issue when lakhs of students are affected.
An old social media post by Dharmendra Pradhan featuring Sonam Wangchuk and his wife has gone viral, with Pradhan expressing appreciation for their passion. Wangchuk's ongoing fast continues to resonate, aligning with the image of an 'austere crusader'.
The impasse in India's Rajya Sabha (upper house of parliament) persists, with the government expressing readiness for a debate while the Opposition insists on the resignation of Minister Dharmendra Pradhan first.
The Gujarat BJP has accused Rahul Gandhi of misleading the youth, specifically referencing a Congress protest outside the Prime Minister's house, while Gandhi criticized Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Naimisha Pradhan, daughter of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has disabled her Instagram account following an online backlash and protests from the CJP.
Dharmendra Pradhan responded to CJP protests by accusing Rahul Gandhi of using students as political tools, stating that the objective of the protests was disruption for headlines, not solutions.
WorldBBCTimes of Indiahindustan-times1mo ago3 sources
Sonam Wangchuk, an engineer, is continuing his hunger strike to demand education reforms in India, despite some of his fellow student protesters ending their fast. He reports that peaceful protesters have been dealt with brutality and that his health parameters are being monitored.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is preparing for the next event of his own campaign, focusing on similar issues and demanding the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, amidst discussions about his absence from a protest site.
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-times1mo ago2 sources
Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Dipke has used Taylor Swift's song 'Anti-hero' to mock and target Dharmendra Pradhan, quoting the lyric 'It's me, hi, I'm the problem.' This unusual move by the CJP has drawn attention for its direct and pop-culture infused criticism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended birthday wishes to Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, commending his efforts on the National Education Policy. The post on X subsequently received a community note.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has accused Rahul Gandhi of misleading youth and creating fear in their minds amidst the ongoing NEET UG paper leak controversy, which has led to opposition calls for Pradhan's resignation.
The CJP's Abhijeet Dipke criticized Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's 'terrorist' remark and accused him of having 'blood of 17 students on his hands' amid ongoing protests demanding Pradhan's resignation over irregularities in the education system.
Protests demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan are intensifying in India, with a Haryana guest teacher suspended for participating in a 'Cockroach Janta Party' protest in Pune. Students in Lucknow have also joined the movement, protesting against 'endless exams' with the 'Cockroach Janta Party' participating.
The CJP (Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti) has announced a nationwide protest campaign, starting with a demonstration in Pune on June 11, demanding the resignation of the Education Minister. The group plans an indefinite sit-in in Delhi from June 20 if their demands are not met.
PoliticsTimes of Indiaindian-express2mo ago2 sources
The Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti (CJP) held its first protest, with Abhijeet Dipke stating that this is just the beginning and reiterating their demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The organization warned of more actions to come, describing the initial protest as a 'trailer'.
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express2mo ago3 sources
Activist Sonam Wangchuk is set to join the Cockroach Janta Party's protest in Delhi on June 6. The protest comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding NEET and CBSE examinations.
Abhijeet Dipke, founder of CJP, is set to return to India on June 6 to launch a protest demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. Dipke stated he rejected job offers in the US to return and participate in this protest.
Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized the Central government over the CBSE OSM row, stating that attacks on him will not absolve the government of its alleged crimes. He specifically targeted Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, suggesting he should have been sacked.
India's Education Ministry has requested a report from the CBSE regarding widespread issues with its re-evaluation process. Students have reported problems including blurred answer sheets and portal failures.
A privilege motion has been moved against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in Rajya Sabha, with Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accusing him of lowering Parliament's dignity through remarks related to a parliamentary committee post the NEET paper leak case.
CultureTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+1ndtv3mo ago4 sources
A Pune teacher was arrested in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak, exposing a coaching nexus and sparking widespread political criticism. Amid demands for the education minister's resignation, the Centre approved key appointments to the National Testing Agency (NTA) to address the intensifying uproar.
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+2ndtvkhaleej-times3mo ago5 sources
Indian authorities, including the CBI, have widened their investigation into the NEET UG paper leak, making multiple arrests and identifying an alleged organized gang and potential insider involvement. The scandal has also sparked political reactions and protests across the country.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticized Kharge, stating that women's reservation in India is about delivering outcomes rather than making recurring, unfulfilled promises.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan advocated for international collaborations in education, highlighting India's knowledge ecosystem, demographic dividend, and growing economy.
Indian minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that action would be taken against those involved in preparing an NCERT book chapter that discussed corruption in the judiciary.
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+1ndtv16d ago4 sources
Former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan broke his silence on his resignation, stating that he was a 'victim of Gen Z' and that some people had misled youth protesters. He emphasized that Gen Z is a force that cannot be ignored and urged students to align career choices with national needs.
Chadha's remarks came days after hundreds of students protested across India, demanding the resignation of former Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Opposition leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, have criticized BJP MPs for felicitating Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing them of celebrating the 'destruction of children's futures.' They argue that Pradhan's welcome is inappropriate given recent events.
BJP MP Sambit Patra dismissed reports concerning Dharmendra Pradhan's ministerial portfolio as 'fictional and unfounded,' stating they were published for sensationalism.
Former minister Dharmendra Pradhan, asserting his 'street fighter' identity after resigning, arrived in Parliament to a strong welcome from fellow MPs who raised slogans in his support.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan responded to a Congress MP's 'It Happens' remark by declaring himself a 'street fighter.' He made the statement while greeting supporters and MPs outside Parliament.
A debate emerged after Shashi Tharoor's son suggested banning 'boomers' from WhatsApp, to which the Congress MP responded with wit. This discussion followed protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party, resulting in the resignation of union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged paper leaks.
PoliticsBBCberlingskeDW+13France 24NHK Worldtelexn1-serbiaobservadorTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+5 more1mo ago16 sources
India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned following days of widespread student protests, leading to the cessation of demonstrations. Government officials, including Amit Shah, commented on the resignation, with some calling it a 'master stroke' and others emphasizing the importance of youth and students.
TechnologyTimes of Indiahindustan-times1mo ago2 sources
The Indian government's Press Information Bureau (PIB) has fact-checked viral AI-generated deepfake videos of Prime Minister and other ministers, including Dharmendra Pradhan and Piyush Goyal, alleging they are being circulated by Pakistani propaganda accounts as part of a misinformation campaign.
Widespread protests continue across India, driven by students and the 'Cockroach movement,' demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following the NEET paper leak. Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his fast, but the Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) affirmed that the agitation will persist until demands are met, with the government indicating readiness to debate the issue in Parliament.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke urged Prime Minister Modi to remove an "incompetent" minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, emphasizing that student lives are paramount.
India's opposition parties are pressing for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan amid ongoing protests and parliamentary disruptions over alleged paper leaks in the NEET medical entrance exam. The government has offered to discuss the issue in the House, but the opposition insists on the minister's accountability first.
Protests are ongoing in India, fueled by public anger and supported by various groups, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following repeated test paper leaks.
Sonam Wangchuk claims the government assured him that Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation would be considered, along with compensation for student suicides following a 'paper leak'. Rahul Gandhi has also publicly stated that Dharmendra Pradhan is 'incapable' of being education minister, likely in connection with the same controversy.
The Centre has reached out to the Opposition, particularly the Congress, to end their protest demanding the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, assuring discussions on the issue of paper leaks.
Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has called for the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, citing the 'very serious' and 'very grave' situation surrounding exam irregularities and widespread protests.
Indian riot police in New Delhi used batons to disperse thousands of students marching towards parliament, who were demanding the immediate resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over exam leak scandals.
The 59-year-old Wangchuk, who is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak, has urged people to ensure a massive turnout for the Cockroach…
The relationship between the Indian Centre and activist Sonam Wangchuk has significantly changed, moving from a cordial meeting in 2023 with Dharmendra Pradhan, whose resignation is now Wangchuk's main demand, to ongoing protests at Jantar Mantar.
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-times1mo ago2 sources
Mahua Moitra has joined a CJP protest, criticizing Dharmendra Pradhan with a jibe about not celebrating birthdays with 'children's blood.' Her comments highlight a contentious political demonstration.
In a public display, activist Abhijeet Dipke wished Dharmendra Pradhan a 'Happy Birthday' while simultaneously calling for his resignation, accompanied by a symbolic gift.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan acknowledged that the NEET exam leak 'shouldn't have happened' but accused Rahul Gandhi of exploiting public anxiety over the issue. The controversy surrounds alleged irregularities in the national medical entrance examination.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan took responsibility for the NEET paper leak case, which led to student suicides, as over two million students retook the medical entrance exam under tight security.
The CJP has received police approval for a June 20 protest in Delhi, renewing calls for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and demanding accountability for paper leaks and student suicides.
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is conducting nationwide protests, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged exam irregularities and unveiling a five-point manifesto for affected students.
A Delhi court has rejected the bail plea of Manisha Waghmare, a key accused in the NEET-UG leak case. Meanwhile, Dharmendra Pradhan is reviewing preparations for the NEET re-examination, assuring a smooth and error-free process.
PoliticsbloombergNYTAl Jazeera+14DWSCMPFrance 24la-repubblicail-sole-24-oreTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+6 more2mo ago17 sources
Thousands of young people, led by the 'Cockroach Janata Party' founder Abhijeet Dipke, gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for their first significant protest. The movement, which has gained viral traction, aims to challenge the Modi government and advocate for youth concerns.
The Congress party has criticized the transfer of CBSE officers as 'throwing dust in people's eyes' and called for the sacking of Dharmendra Pradhan amidst ongoing controversies.
India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has pledged to take action regarding reported glitches in the Central Board of Secondary Education's (CBSE) digital evaluation system.
The Congress party has criticized the BJP-led government, alleging a 'collapsed' exam system with over 80 paper leaks, and demanded the removal of minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The NEET paper leak controversy continues with the CBI questioning a doctor, teacher, and parlour owner in connection with the irregularities. Meanwhile, the Congress party has called for the dissolution of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed the preparations for the upcoming NEET re-examination, emphasizing the need to eliminate all gaps and ensure a foolproof process.
Worldfazaftonbladetberlingske+12svenska-dagbladetde-volkskrantdigi24Times of Indiahindustan-timesindian-expressDawnndtv+4 more3mo ago15 sources
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a multi-country European tour, visiting the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway. The visits resulted in several strategic agreements and upgraded bilateral partnerships focusing on areas like technology, trade, defense, and water management.
Times of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express3mo ago3 sources
The NEET-UG exam has been canceled and rescheduled for June 21st following a widespread paper leak scandal, with a Pune-based chemistry lecturer identified as a key source. The Education Minister announced that future NEET exams will be computer-based to prevent malpractices, as the CBI focuses on the paper trail.
Following the NEET 2026 examination leak, a Supreme Court petition has called for a court-monitored re-test and agency replacement, while the Ministry of Education, led by Dharmendra Pradhan, has held its first meeting to ensure a safe and transparent re-examination process.
M.K. Stalin and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan are engaged in a dispute regarding the Centre's three-language policy. Stalin has criticized the policy as a "calculated attempt at linguistic imposition."
Indian minister Dharmendra Pradhan has advocated for the 'Bharat Innovates' initiative to be transformed into an institutional framework, emphasizing its importance for national development.
Indian minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated at Express Adda that textbook revisions should occur as society evolves, emphasizing the dynamic nature of educational content.
PoliticsTimes of Indiahindustan-times6mo ago2 sources
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed regret over a controversial Class 8 NCERT textbook chapter on judicial corruption and promised action against those responsible.