Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is unlikely to tender his resignation, government sources confirmed on Friday, even as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) intensified its month-long agitation at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The government asserts that Pradhan's resignation would be an evasion of responsibility, emphasizing its commitment to addressing the systemic issues within the National Testing Agency (NTA).
CJP Demands and Government Dialogue
The CJP, a prominent student outfit, reiterated its demand for Pradhan's removal as non-negotiable during a second round of talks with the Centre, led by Union Minister JP Nadda. The student body has been leading protests following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy that surfaced in May, culminating in a violent march towards Parliament on July 20. The CJP has warned of escalating protests if their primary demand is not met.
During the nearly two-hour meeting at the Constitution Club, CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka stated that the government had agreed in principle to two key demands: providing ₹1 crore compensation to families of NEET aspirants who died by suicide, and ensuring no punitive action is taken against protesting students. The government has requested time until Saturday afternoon to respond to the demand concerning Pradhan's resignation. A third round of discussions is scheduled with Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.
Government's Plan for NTA Reforms
Amidst the widespread discontent, government sources indicate that a comprehensive list of problems within the NTA is being compiled, with immediate resolution efforts underway. The Centre claims to have dismantled several paper leak gangs and anticipates further enforcement actions. In a significant administrative move, the education secretary was replaced, marking the first such change since the controversy began.
Stricter Legislation Against Paper Leaks
The Union Cabinet has approved a new bill aimed at imposing stricter penalties for individuals involved in examination paper leaks. This legislative action follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pledge for tougher measures against such rackets, including the creation of fast-track courts dedicated to these cases. The proposed legislation is expected to stipulate imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines reaching ₹10 crore for those convicted, a substantial increase from the existing law's provisions of three to five years imprisonment and a ₹10 lakh fine.
Activist Support and Ongoing Scrutiny
The student agitation received additional momentum from activist Sonam Wangchuk, who concluded his 25-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the government that no action would be taken against student protesters. While the formal dialogue channel has been established, the outcome of Saturday's talks regarding Education Minister Pradhan's future remains a focal point of national attention.