Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan tendered his resignation on Saturday, citing a need to prevent "anti-national forces" from exploiting the ongoing student protests over examination irregularities. The move comes after weeks of sustained demonstrations by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and various student organizations across the country.

In a post on X, Pradhan, 56, stated that his resignation was aimed at preserving national unity and protecting students' futures from legal entanglements. "Considering the situation that has arisen at Jantar Mantar and across the country, so that anti-national forces do not benefit from it, the unity of the country remains intact... I have sent my resignation letter to the respected Prime Minister," he wrote. While accepting responsibility for the exam-related issues from day one, Pradhan alleged that "people holding responsible positions tried to create obstacles to mislead many students."

The protests, which have intensified over alleged paper leaks in exams like NEET-UG, have seen widespread participation, including a 20-day hunger strike by Ladakh-based educationist Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar. The situation escalated on July 18 when Delhi Police used tear gas and lathis to disperse crowds and imposed internet shutdowns in the capital, hindering communication. The crackdown spurred nationwide demonstrations, with thousands demanding accountability from the Modi government.

Protesters are calling for institutional reforms,greater transparency in the National Testing Agency (NTA), and action against officials responsible for lapses. The CJP has also sought stricter measures to restore public confidence in the examination system. While the opposition has criticized the government's handling of the issue, the Education Ministry has defended its response, citing ongoing investigations and reforms to strengthen exam security. Pradhan, a BJP leader from Odisha, had served as Education Minister since July 2021 and was re-appointed in June 2024.