CJP Insists on Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation
The Cockroach Janta Party has said Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation remains “non-negotiable” following its second round of talks with representatives of the Centre over the NEET paper leak controversy.
CJP Demands Dharmendra Pradhan Resignation
CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said the delegation clearly informed Union ministers that the organisation would not withdraw its demand for Pradhan’s removal. The group said protests at Jantar Mantar would continue until the government formally responded.
The Centre reportedly requested time until Saturday afternoon to communicate its position on the resignation demand. No commitment concerning Pradhan’s removal was made during the meeting.
The discussions were held at the Constitution Club of India after the Centre accepted the CJP’s request for a neutral venue.
Centre Considers Compensation and FIR Withdrawal
CJP representatives said the government had expressed in-principle support for compensation to the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide following the paper leak controversy.
The Centre also agreed to consider withdrawing FIRs and legal proceedings against peaceful protesters. The details, eligibility criteria and timeline for implementing these measures have not yet been finalised publicly.
CJP has additionally demanded assurances that peaceful participants in the agitation will not face retaliatory legal action.
NEET Paper Leak Protests Continue
The meeting followed activist Sonam Wangchuk’s decision to end his 26-day hunger strike after receiving written assurances from the government. These included a parliamentary discussion on examination reforms and positive consideration of compensation and legal relief for protesters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced fast-track courts and tougher measures against those involved in examination paper leaks. However, CJP leaders said these steps would not end the agitation without political accountability.
