Patna: Students in Patna celebrated on Saturday after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid nationwide protests over the alleged NEET paper leak. Student organisations described the resignation as a significant milestone in their campaign demanding reforms to the examination system and greater accountability.
The minister submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to the information provided by student groups.
Protests Began on June 20
Student organisations launched protests on June 20, seeking reforms in the examination process, action against those responsible for the alleged paper leak, and the resignation of the Union Education Minister.
The demonstrations formed part of a broader movement that emerged following allegations of irregularities in the NEET examination.
Celebrations at Dakbungalow
At Patna’s Dakbungalow intersection, students erupted in celebration after learning of the resignation. According to the organisers, Abhijit Deepke, President of CJP, informed protesters about the development.
Students applauded, raised slogans, and chanted “We Won”, describing the resignation as a victory achieved through collective action.
Sweets Distributed at Gandhi Maidan
Following the announcement, a large number of students gathered at Gandhi Maidan, where they distributed sweets and celebrated what they called the first success of their movement.
Several participants said the development reflected the strength of student unity and sustained public protest.
Protest Leaders React
Speaking in Delhi, Abhijit Deepke said the resignation demonstrated that sustained and peaceful protests could bring accountability.
“This resignation is proof that if we do not succumb to fear or bow down before the government, we can secure anyone’s resignation,” he said.
Student groups described the resignation as the first major achievement of their campaign and said they would continue to press for wider reforms in the examination system.
Minister’s Resignation Letter
According to the information shared by the protesters, Dharmendra Pradhan said in his resignation letter that he was “deeply saddened by the sequence of events over the past 10 days.”
He further stated, “This is not a matter of personal prestige for me. I have resigned to ensure that anti-national forces do not exploit the students’ protests.”
