The intense political standoff and student agitation surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak controversy culminated in the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Details from behind-the-scenes negotiations show that the central government attempted to resolve the impasse with the protesting Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) by proposing a compromise. The proposal involved reassigning Dharmendra Pradhan from the Education Ministry to another Cabinet portfolio, but student representatives firmly rejected the offer, demanding nothing less than his complete resignation.
Government's Portfolio Swap Offer Rejected by Protesters
In an effort to end the demonstration, two Union Ministers representing the government, JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, engaged in high-level talks with CJP leadership. During these discussions, government negotiators suggested that the student movement could conclude its demonstration if a new Education Minister was appointed and other auxiliary demands were met. The negotiators emphasized that allocating or reshuffling Cabinet portfolios remains the constitutional prerogative of the Prime Minister, and that a shift away from the education portfolio was achievable. However, the CJP delegation refused to budge from its core demand, insisting that Pradhan step down from the Union Cabinet entirely.
Agreement Reached on Compensation and Withdrawal of Charges
Prior to the final resolution, the government had already acceded to two major demands put forward by the CJP. These included the withdrawal of First Information Reports (FIRs) filed against demonstrators who participated in the 'Samsad Chalo' march on March 20. Standard administrative protocols were applied to drop charges, barring instances involving severe destruction of public property. Furthermore, the government initiated proceedings to address financial relief for families affected by tragedy following the NEET scandal. CJP had demanded Rs 1 crore in compensation for the families of each candidate who died by suicide after the paper leaks and subsequent exam cancellations.
Final Talks at Constitution Club and Conclusion of Protest
Initial delays in establishing formal dialogue channels contributed to the prolonged deadlock and mounting public scrutiny. Ultimately, Dharmendra Pradhan announced his resignation on the social media platform X on the afternoon of July 25. Reflecting on the developments, he noted that events over the preceding 10 days had left his mind deeply saddened, emphasizing that the matter was not one of personal prestige. Following the announcement, a third round of talks took place at the Constitution Club in New Delhi. Government ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh met with CJP delegates, including Sourav Das and Ashutosh Ranka. Speaking after the meeting, Ashutosh Ranka confirmed that all primary demands had been met after 36 days of agitation, calling upon all demonstrators to peacefully clear the protest site and return home.
