India’s education minister resigns amid protests

India’s Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned amid a student movement led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). He submitted his resignation letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Pradhan confirmed the development in a post on social media platform X on Saturday afternoon.

He resigned a few hours before the third round of talks between the CJP and the central government, scheduled for Saturday afternoon.

In a statement posted on X, Pradhan said, “Considering the situation across the country, including Jantar Mantar, and to ensure that the future of even a single Indian student does not become entangled in legal complications, I have submitted my resignation letter to the Honorable Prime Minister.”

He said, “India’s youth are the country’s greatest strength. It is my commitment to ensure that the youth of the country do not become trapped in a web of confusion.”

Meanwhile, fresh clashes broke out near Jantar Mantar on Saturday after Delhi Police fired tear gas shells and carried out baton charges. Several people were reportedly injured in the clashes.

Expressing solidarity with those who were subjected to police brutality, the Cockroach Janata Party has called for a candlelight march on Sunday.

Meanwhile, police detained RJD chief Lalu Yadav’s elder son, Tej Pratap Yadav, while he was taking part in a protest.

Earlier in the day, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi strongly criticized the government during a press conference. He claimed that the government was trying to protect Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan through a cabinet reshuffle. Calling it “unacceptable,” the Congress leader said, “Nothing short of Pradhan’s resignation will be accepted.”