Modi Government Holds Firm on Dharmendra Pradhan’s Future

New Delhi: The ongoing protests over the NEET paper leak controversy continue to intensify, with demonstrators demanding accountability from the Union Government. However, despite fresh negotiations between government representatives and protest leaders, there appears to be little movement on one of the protesters’ most significant demands—the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

According to media reports citing government sources, the Modi government is not considering seeking Pradhan’s resignation, even as protests continue to gather attention in the national capital.

Weeks of Protest at Jantar Mantar

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) has been leading demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for nearly three weeks. The protest movement has largely focused on allegations surrounding the NEET paper leak and has called for greater transparency, educational reforms, and political accountability.

As part of the campaign, protesters also organised a ‘Sansad March’, where students and supporters marched towards Parliament, urging the Centre to take stronger action over the examination controversy.

The demonstrations have drawn attention from students, educators, and political observers, making the issue one of the most closely watched education-related developments in recent weeks.

Two-Hour Meeting Ends Without Agreement

In an effort to resolve the deadlock, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh met representatives of the CJP at the Constitution Club of India in New Delhi on Friday.

The discussions lasted for nearly two hours and were described by both sides as cordial. The government delegation listened to the concerns raised by the protest leaders, while the CJP reiterated its key demands.

Speaking after the meeting, J.P. Nadda said the protesters had presented three major demands along with five reform proposals. He confirmed that both sides would meet again for another round of discussions.

Although the talks remained constructive, they did not produce any immediate resolution.

Resignation Demand Remains the Biggest Roadblock

The principal disagreement continues to revolve around the demand for Dharmendra Pradhan‘s resignation.

Representing the CJP, spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka maintained that the organisation would not withdraw its demand, arguing that political accountability is necessary following the examination controversy.

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Government representatives, however, reportedly made it clear that the Centre is unwilling to seek the Education Minister’s resignation.

This difference in positions ultimately prevented both sides from reaching a consensus.

Government Focuses on Dialogue

Despite the lack of a breakthrough, the Centre has indicated that dialogue will continue. Officials suggested that future meetings could focus on educational reforms and measures aimed at strengthening examination security and restoring confidence among students.

The government’s willingness to continue discussions signals an effort to keep communication channels open while avoiding a prolonged confrontation.

What Happens Next?

With another meeting expected soon, attention will remain on whether either side is prepared to soften its position.

For now, the protests at Jantar Mantar are expected to continue, while the demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation remains at the centre of the movement.

Whether continued negotiations can produce a compromise or further intensify the political debate surrounding the NEET paper leak remains to be seen.