Nation

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; New Delhi, July 25: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from his post amid the ongoing protest by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). The resignation comes after the CJP had been demanding his removal over allegations of NEET question paper leaks and corruption in the education sector. The organisation had repeatedly stated that it would not withdraw its agitation under any circumstances unless the Union Education Minister stepped down from his position.

The CJP had been leading protests demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in the education system. According to party representatives, the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan was their primary demand, and they had made it clear that the movement would continue until the government accepted their demand.

Connection with the ongoing protest, two rounds of discussions had already taken place between government representatives and members of the CJP. However, the protesters remained firm on their demands and refused to end their agitation. A third round of talks between the two sides was scheduled to take place on Saturday evening, but before that, Dharmendra Pradhan announced his resignation.

Announcing his decision on social media on Saturday afternoon, Dharmendra Pradhan said that he was deeply saddened by the developments of the past 10 days. In his message, he expressed his long association with the education sector and highlighted his commitment towards students, teachers and educational reforms.

Dharmendra Pradhan wrote that he had dedicated himself for nearly four decades towards the welfare of students, teachers and the improvement of the education system. He said that he had always believed that a strong and visionary education system was the foundation of a powerful nation.

The former Union Education Minister further stated that he deeply respected the aspirations, emotions and legitimate expectations of the youth of the country. He said that transforming the dreams of the younger generation into reality was a collective political and social responsibility.

Expressing gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dharmendra Pradhan said that he was thankful for the opportunity he received to serve the nation. He described public service as a privilege and said that he would always remain committed to the progress of the country.

The resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan has created fresh political discussions, with the opposition and protest groups viewing it as a response to their continued pressure over allegations related to the education sector. The government, however, has maintained that it remains committed to ensuring transparency and protecting the interests of students.

The controversy surrounding NEET and allegations of irregularities in examinations had triggered widespread debate across the country, with student organisations demanding strict action against those responsible. The resignation marks a significant development in the ongoing political and educational dispute.