Centre Initially Offered to Shift Dharmendra Pradhan to Another Ministry, CJP Insisted on Resignation: Sources

The Centre initially explored the possibility of shifting Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to another Cabinet portfolio in an attempt to end the nationwide student-led protests, but the proposal was turned down by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which remained firm on its demand for his resignation, according to sources. Sources familiar with the negotiations said senior Union ministers suggested that Pradhan could be removed from the Education Ministry while continuing in the Cabinet under a different portfolio. The proposal was reportedly presented as a compromise during talks with CJP leaders and student representatives.

The CJP rejected the offer, maintaining that a mere change in ministry would not address concerns over accountability. Protest leaders reportedly argued that only Pradhans resignation would meet the movements core demand and restore public confidence in the governments handling of the examination controversy.

The deadlock continued despite multiple rounds of discussions between government representatives and CJP leaders. According to reports, the Centre had already indicated its willingness to consider several other demands, including the withdrawal of cases related to the protests and compensation for affected families. Even so, the issue of Pradhans resignation remained the primary sticking point.

With public pressure mounting and negotiations failing to produce a breakthrough, Dharmendra Pradhan submitted his resignation on Saturday. His exit came shortly before another scheduled round of talks, after which the CJP announced the suspension of its protest movement. The protests, which began over allegations of examination irregularities and paper leaks, evolved into a broader demand for accountability and reforms in the countrys examination system. The agitation drew widespread participation from students across several states and placed significant political pressure on the Centre.

Following the ministers resignation, the government reiterated its commitment to strengthening examination security and implementing reforms aimed at improving transparency and preventing future paper leak incidents. Attention is now expected to shift toward the implementation of those promised measures and the restoration of confidence among students and aspirants.

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