Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from the Narendra Modi-led government on July 25, 2026, after weeks of large student-led demonstrations in Delhi and other cities over alleged examination paper leaks and irregularities. The President accepted his resignation on the Prime Minister’s advice, and Pralhad Joshi was given additional charge of the Education Ministry. Protest groups described the development as a victory for students demanding accountability, transparent examinations and stronger safeguards against paper leaks.
The agitation gathered momentum at Jantar Mantar, where students, young professionals and activists organised marches, sit-ins and hunger strikes. Tensions rose when protesters attempted to move towards Parliament and clashed with security personnel. Delhi Police detained several participants and registered multiple cases connected with the demonstrations. Reports also alleged the use of batons and tear gas, while police stated that officers were injured during the unrest. The government later directed authorities to review arrests and avoid unnecessary legal action against students involved in the movement.
After the protest ended, concerns emerged that police were using videos and other records to identify individuals who had participated. Some activists and social-media accounts alleged that Muslim protesters and volunteers were being questioned or detained disproportionately. However, no official data or independently verified evidence has established that Muslims were systematically targeted as a group. Any claim of religion-based action therefore requires careful investigation and transparent disclosure by authorities. Civil-rights organisations have called for due process, equal treatment and protection of peaceful demonstrators, while the government has promised examination reforms and tougher measures against future paper leaks. The resignation has intensified debate over ministerial accountability, policing of public protests and the need to rebuild trust among millions of students affected by repeated examination controversies. Opposition parties said public pressure forced accountability, while BJP leaders urged calm, dialogue and lasting education reforms.
