A nationwide protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is scheduled for today, with the group calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over allegations of a NEET examination paper leak. The initiative, dubbed “Every district. One day. One demand,” aims to organise demonstrations in every district across India.

The CJP’s leadership is also set to engage with Union Ministers today, asserting that despite government assurances regarding examination reforms, Pradhan’s resignation remains their principal demand. This mobilisation follows an eventful 24 hours marked by activist Sonam Wangchuk ending his 26-day hunger strike after the government provided assurances, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposing a new law specifically targeting penalties in paper leak instances.

Security measures have been enhanced throughout Delhi ahead of the protests. Numerous Metro stations will remain closed, and schools in the city are adapting their educational formats due to strict restrictions in place.

Protests Centre on Student Solidarity

CJP spokesperson Saurav Das emphasised that the movement is not confined to Delhi, aiming to create analogous gathering sites across India known as Jantar Mantars. He stated that today’s protests are intended to express solidarity with affected students, parents, and those injured during the police actions in Delhi on July 20.

The CJP contends that the removal of the Education Minister would represent the most decisive action the government could implement in response to the ongoing crisis. Activist Sonam Wangchuk’s conclusion of his hunger strike was perceived positively by the CJP, which expressed relief and gratitude while continuing to advocate for the resignation of Pradhan.

A meeting with Union ministers is set to take place today at Constitution Club, following the government’s agreement to a neutral discussion venue. The CJP plans to reiterate its four key demands, including the minister’s departure, compensation for affected families, and the withdrawal of legal cases against peaceful protesters.

Government Responds to Protest Demands

In a late-night video message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation, stating that the Union Cabinet would review a draft law aimed at establishing fast-track courts and implementing stricter penalties for those involved in examination paper leaks. He expressed the intent to secure Parliament’s approval for this legislation during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

Additionally, the Centre has appointed Naresh Pal Gangwar as the new Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, marking a broader administrative reshuffle. Gangwar succeeds Vineet Joshi, who has transitioned to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj; the National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the NEET examination, falls under Gangwar’s jurisdiction.

The government reiterated its willingness to engage in discussions regarding the NEET examination and paper leak issues in Parliament while accusing opposition parties of avoiding debate. Despite the government’s commitment to reform, the opposition maintains that no discussions can proceed without Pradhan’s resignation, continuing to disrupt parliamentary proceedings to demand accountability.

In response to the anticipated protests, 17 Metro stations in Delhi remain closed today. Schools in the central region have adjusted their operations due to traffic constraints and Metro shutdowns; some have shifted junior-level classes to hybrid learning, while others have resumed in-person classes with modified transport arrangements.

Heavy police presence is expected around Jantar Mantar, with various restrictions and traffic diversions implemented in central Delhi. Authorities continue their investigations into the violence that occurred on July 20, particularly identifying those responsible for assaults on security personnel and damage to public property.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share