CJP’s Tough Message to Centre: ‘Dharmendra Pradhan Must Resign’ — Public Apology Demand Adds New Twist to Jantar Mantar Protest

New Delhi: The ongoing student-led protest at Jantar Mantar has entered a crucial phase, with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) formally asking the Central Government to issue a public apology to students who were allegedly assaulted during the July 20 demonstration. Alongside the apology, the organisation has once again made it clear that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation remains a non-negotiable demand.

In a letter submitted to the Centre on Friday, CJP representatives urged the Government of India, the Delhi Police, and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) to publicly apologise for what they described as the use of excessive force against peaceful student protesters during the ‘Sansad Chalo’ march.

The organisation also repeated three key demands that it says cannot be compromised under any circumstances. These include the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, ₹1 crore compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide in connection with the NEET examination controversy, and a guarantee that no legal action will be taken against protesters participating in the movement.

According to the letter, these demands were finalised after extensive consultations with supporters, volunteers, and students participating in the protest at Jantar Mantar. CJP said the movement has received support from across the country and warned that any delay in accepting the demands could lead to a wider nationwide agitation.

The letter also urged the government to respond to its five-point charter on examination reforms, arguing that meaningful structural changes are necessary to restore public confidence in India’s education and examination system.

Meeting with Union Ministers

The latest developments came after a nearly two-hour meeting between CJP representatives Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka and Union Ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh. The discussions were held at Vithalbhai Patel House after the organisation insisted that talks should take place at a neutral venue rather than a minister’s residence or office.

Following the meeting, J P Nadda stated that the government had carefully heard the organisation’s concerns and would examine the demands before holding another round of discussions.

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Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Saurav Das reiterated that the demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation would not be withdrawn under any circumstances.

This was the third official round of talks between the government and the CJP. Earlier meetings were held on July 20, the same day thousands of students gathered in Delhi under the ‘Sansad Chalo’ campaign demanding accountability over examination-related issues.

Background of the Protest

The protests intensified after demonstrators attempted to march towards Parliament on July 20. Security forces stopped the procession, leading to clashes in which police reportedly used batons and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Several protesters sustained injuries during the confrontation, sparking criticism from student groups and civil society organisations.

The latest meeting also came shortly after activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike following government assurances regarding his separate set of demands, adding another significant political development to an already eventful week.

What Lies Ahead?

While the government has not yet announced any decision on the CJP’s demands, both sides are expected to continue discussions. CJP has maintained that unless its demands are addressed, the movement will expand beyond Delhi and mobilise students across multiple states.

The coming rounds of negotiations are likely to determine whether the ongoing protest moves towards a resolution or evolves into a larger national campaign focused on education reforms, student rights, and government accountability.