Nationwide protest on July 24: CJP intensifies demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation

The controversy surrounding the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak intensified on Thursday after the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) announced plans for nationwide peaceful protests on July 24, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The organisation urged student unions and other groups to join the demonstrations and coordinate with local authorities for permissions and arrangements. The protest call comes amid growing agitation over the alleged paper leak issue, with CJP accusing the government of failing to address students’ concerns.

In a social media post, the CJP shared a poster calling for nationwide participation and appealed to people to “stand in solidarity with victims of police brutality across India” as part of its broader mobilisation campaign.

CJP says Dharmendra Pradhan resignation is ‘non-negotiable’

The organisation has maintained that the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remains its central demand.

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CJP spokesperson Sourav Das said the protest would continue until the demand was addressed, stating that “Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is non-negotiable.”

“Without this, the protest will continue. It will continue for as long as it has to,” Das said.

The party also said it was open to discussions with the government but insisted that the issue of accountability should remain at the centre of any dialogue.

CJP seeks talks at Jantar Mantar or neutral venue

Amid reports that the government was exploring discussions with opposition and student representatives, CJP said it had not received any formal communication regarding talks.

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Das said the organisation was ready to meet government representatives at Jantar Mantar or a neutral venue such as the Constitution Club of India.

“Come to Jantar Mantar or to a neutral venue like the Constitution Club of India. We will meet there,” Das said.

The government, according to sources, has indicated that discussions can take place but without conditions such as demands for resignations.

Political pressure rises over NEET-UG controversy

The protest campaign has also taken a political turn, with CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke warning that the issue could widen if the Education Minister’s resignation demand was not accepted.

Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dipke said, “I once again request you to accept Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. Otherwise, the issue will not remain limited to Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation alone; it will come for your resignation also.”

He also accused Pradhan of failing to address students’ concerns and said the interests of millions of aspirants should take priority.

The remarks represent the position of the CJP and come as the organisation steps up pressure over the paper leak controversy.

Government says paper leaks need serious discussion

The protest escalation comes as the government faces pressure over examination-related irregularities.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda said the issue of paper leaks should not be politicised and required detailed discussion.

“The issue of paper leaks is a serious problem and requires in-depth discussion,” Nadda said.

The government has also highlighted measures aimed at strengthening action against those involved in examination malpractice.

PM Modi announces fast-track courts for paper leak cases

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced steps to ensure strict punishment for those involved in paper leaks, including the use of fast-track courts.

Reacting to the announcement, CJP spokesperson Sourav Das criticised the move, calling such announcements ineffective unless concrete action was taken.

The government has maintained that those responsible for examination irregularities will face strict action.

With ANI inputs