CJP Hails Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation as ‘Victory for Democracy’, Says Protest Will Continue

New Delhi, July 2026 : The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been spearheading nationwide protests over examination paper leaks and alleged irregularities, on Saturday described the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan as a “victory for democracy”, saying the development reflected the strength of a sustained student movement.

Soon after news of Pradhan’s resignation emerged, celebrations broke out among protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The organisation also posted a message on its official X handle declaring, “Democracy Wins!”, along with a video showing demonstrators cheering and celebrating the minister’s exit.

Addressing protesters and the media, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said the resignation marked an important milestone in the agitation but emphasised that the movement was far from over.

“We have achieved one of our key objectives. There was a belief that resignations do not happen under this government, but today’s development shows that public pressure and democratic protest can bring accountability,” Dipke said.

Holding up a banner carrying photographs of students who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, Dipke dedicated the moment to their memory.

“This is for every student whose future was affected and for those families who suffered immense loss. We believe today’s development is a tribute to their struggle,” he said.

Dipke asserted that the resignation demonstrated the power of peaceful democratic protests and urged citizens not to fear raising their voices against issues affecting the public.

“This shows that when people remain united and determined, accountability can be achieved. Democracy functions when citizens question those in power and demand responsibility,” he said.

However, he clarified that the agitation would continue as two major demands remained unresolved.

According to Dipke, the first demand is financial assistance of ₹1 crore for the families of students who allegedly lost their lives following the examination controversy. The second is strict action against police personnel accused of using excessive force during the July 20 protest march towards Parliament.

“Our movement does not end with one resignation. We want justice for the affected families and accountability for those responsible for the police action against protesting students,” he stated.

Dipke also demanded that all criminal cases registered against students before and after the July 20 demonstrations be withdrawn immediately.

“No student should face legal consequences for participating in a democratic protest. All cases filed against students should be revoked,” he said.

Appealing to the wider public, Dipke described the movement as an example of democratic participation and peaceful civic action.

“This is how democracy should function. Citizens must be able to raise their concerns and hold governments accountable through peaceful means,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Dharmendra Pradhan, in his resignation letter submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said his decision was guided by his commitment to safeguarding the interests of students and protecting the integrity of the country’s examination system. He thanked the Prime Minister for the opportunity to serve and reiterated that public service and the welfare of India’s youth would continue to remain his foremost priority.