Nationwide Protests and Global Solidarity Intensify Calls for Education Minister’s Resignation
Student-led protests demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan gathered momentum across India on Tuesday, with demonstrations reported in several major cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Patna, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram and Chandigarh. Protesters accused the government of failing to ensure transparency and fairness in national examinations, particularly after allegations surrounding examination irregularities and paper leaks.
In New Delhi, thousands continued their sit-in near Jantar Mantar after earlier confrontations with police during a march towards Parliament. Protest organisers reiterated that their primary demands include the resignation of the Education Minister, an independent investigation into examination irregularities, protection of students’ rights, and comprehensive reforms in India’s examination system. Despite heightened security and police action, demonstrators vowed to continue their movement until their demands are addressed.
Opposition parties intensified pressure on the Centre by joining several demonstrations and raising the issue inside and outside Parliament. Senior opposition leaders called for ministerial accountability and alleged that repeated examination controversies had severely undermined public confidence in the country’s education system. The government, however, has maintained that reforms are being considered while giving no indication that the Education Minister will resign.
The movement has also drawn international attention. Members of the Indian diaspora organised solidarity demonstrations in cities including New York, London and several European locations. Participants expressed support for students in India, demanding greater transparency, accountability and credibility in competitive examinations. Protesters carried placards and echoed slogans calling for reforms and justice for affected candidates.
Human rights organisations have voiced concern over reports of police action against demonstrators in the national capital. Amnesty International called for the protection of the right to peaceful assembly, while the Delhi High Court directed authorities to preserve CCTV footage related to the protests as legal challenges over alleged police excesses continue.
Political observers say the protests have evolved beyond a dispute over examination irregularities into a broader youth-led movement highlighting concerns over educational governance, employment opportunities and institutional accountability. With demonstrations continuing in multiple states and support emerging from Indian communities overseas, pressure on the government is expected to remain high in the coming days.
