Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as Union Education Minister on Saturday, citing the need to safeguard students' futures and stop "anti-national forces" from taking advantage of the large-scale youth protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. His resignation came just hours before the third round of talks between the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and the Centre, with protesters demanding his removal as a key condition.

Before the talks, CJP leaders declared Pradhan’s resignation as "non-negotiable." Shortly after, Pradhan posted a detailed statement on social media addressing the country's youth. He clarified that his decision was "not a matter of personal prestige." He expressed deep sadness over recent events, especially the violence on July 20 during the students' march to Parliament.

Pradhan faced widespread criticism following several exam paper leaks, which triggered the protests. These leaks raised serious concerns about the integrity of the exam system. His resignation aims to calm the unrest and restore trust among students and parents. The protests, fuelled by anger over exam security lapses, gained momentum, making Pradhan’s position untenable.

With the resignation, the government hopes to ease tensions and move forward in negotiations with the CJP. The student protests have highlighted the demand for stronger measures to prevent such leaks and ensure fair exams. Pradhan's decision appears to be a step toward addressing these demands and preventing further turmoil.