Activist Sonam Wangchuk has acknowledged the efforts of students and protesters in light of the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on July 25. He emphasised the significance of remaining humble, stating that humility in victory is vital. Wangchuk commended the youth for achieving accountability through peaceful democratic means and highlighted the importance of focusing on long-term reforms in education and governance moving forward.

Speaking to journalists at Medanta Hospital, Wangchuk welcomed the government’s decision and expressed gratitude to the citizens nationwide who supported what he termed a peaceful democratic movement. He recognised the resignation as a testament to the power of democratic engagement, stating, “This is a victory for democracy that we witnessed today.” He stressed the importance of safeguarding democracy in India for future generations.

Wangchuk credited the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), volunteers, students, and citizens for their dedication to sustaining the movement. He thanked those involved for maintaining peace throughout the demonstrations, acknowledging that while some isolated incidents occurred, the true power of democracy lies in non-violent actions.

Call for Reforms Beyond Resignation

While recognising the recent accountability achieved, Wangchuk insisted that the resignation should not represent the ultimate goal of the movement. He explicitly stated that achieving a resignation does not build a nation and called for significant reforms in education. He remarked, “There must be reforms in education, and work should continue on that front,” underscoring the broader need for systemic changes in governance.

Wangchuk expressed hope that the resignation would catalyse larger transformations, advocating for governance built on trust, justice, and truth rather than fear. He articulated his vision for India, stating that the nation must pursue love and compassion while eradicating corruption. He asserted that adhering to the path of truth could position India as a global leader and exemplify the concept of ‘Vishwaguru.’

Referring specifically to his home region of Ladakh, Wangchuk encouraged the government to commit to democracy in the area. He voiced expectations for genuine measures to protect the region’s mountains and the democratic rights of its people. Furthermore, he expressed that any promises regarding statehood in Jammu and Kashmir should also be fulfilled by the Centre.

Cockroach Janata Party Withdraws Agitation

Wangchuk’s statements followed the Cockroach Janata Party’s announcement regarding the conclusion of their 37-day protest at Jantar Mantar, subsequent to discussions with Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh. During a press conference at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das stated that the agitation was being withdrawn “in good faith” due to the government’s agreement to key demands, including implementation timelines.

The CJP reported that the Centre committed to providing compensation to the families of NEET aspirants who took their own lives, along with assurances regarding the withdrawal of FIRs against protesters across the nation. The organisation also presented a five-point charter aimed at securing broader educational and examination reforms, with plans for further dialogue with the government in four weeks.

Earlier on the day of his resignation, Pradhan remarked that he stepped down to prevent protesters’ grievances over examination irregularities from being exploited by “anti-national forces.” Additionally, the Centre is reportedly preparing to introduce stringent measures against examination malpractices, including the establishment of Special Fast-Track Courts and a Special Task Force (STF).

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