Political Tensions Rise Over NEET-UG Paper Leak Protests in Delhi
The protests at Delhi's Jantar Mantar over the NEET-UG paper leak have intensified, with former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The situation escalated following police actions against students, leading to injuries among both protesters and officers. Opposition leaders have condemned the police's response, while support for the protesters continues to grow. This article delves into the unfolding political drama and the implications for education policy in India.
Jul 22, 2026, 10:08 IST
Intensifying Protests at Jantar Mantar
The ongoing protests by the 'Cockroach People's Party' (CJP) regarding the NEET-UG paper leak have taken a more intense political turn at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Naveen Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha and leader of the opposition in the Odisha Assembly, has called for the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. He also sharply criticized the police actions against protesting students in Delhi.
Patnaik's Call for Resignation
Naveen Patnaik stated, "I have just held a meeting with BJD MPs regarding the serious events unfolding in Delhi... The situation is very grave. Many young students have faced violent attacks. BJD MPs visited them in the hospital... I need to return to Bhubaneswar for urgent matters tomorrow. However, our MPs will take this issue seriously. I was also asked whether the education minister should resign... Given the current circumstances, I believe he should resign."
This development follows the CJP's 'March to Parliament' protest on Monday, which faced police intervention. Meanwhile, BJD's Rajya Sabha MPs visited injured protesters at RML Hospital.
Delhi Police Reports Injuries
The Delhi Police reported that over 118 officers were injured during the clashes, along with more than 60 protesters. The police have filed five FIRs related to the alleged violence, stone-pelting, and vandalism, and are reviewing over 250 videos to identify those involved.
Opposition leaders have strongly condemned the police's actions, alleging that protesters were subjected to "lathi charge" and tear gas.
On Tuesday, Sharad Pawar and MP Supriya Sule visited the protest site at Jantar Mantar, where the CJP continues its demonstration against the NEET-UG paper leak. The NCP(SCP) has expressed support for the demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. Sharad Pawar posted on X, stating, "After the paper leak in the NEET exam, students have been on hunger strike and protesting at Jantar Mantar. The treatment of students fighting for their legitimate demands yesterday was not in line with democratic values. Today, I visited the protest site, met with the students, gathered information about those injured during the movement, and learned more about their demands."