Sonam Wangchuk Hails Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation as ‘Victory of Democracy’, Calls for Education Reforms
Activist Sonam Wangchuk has welcomed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, calling it a major victory for democracy after months of nationwide student protests over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and examination irregularities.
Reacting on X soon after Pradhan stepped down, Wangchuk praised the peaceful nature of the movement and credited citizens and students for sustaining the campaign. "It's a victory of democracy. Direct democracy, straight from the streets. It's a victory of peace, patience, and perseverance," he wrote.
Wangchuk said the movement should now move beyond demanding accountability and focus on bringing lasting reforms to India's education system. Congratulating the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), Gen Z students and citizens who joined the protests, he posted, "Congratulations, CJP and Gen Z of the nation, and thank you to all citizens for shedding fear, and the fear of fear, and rising up from every corner of the nation. From accountability, now to reforms."
The activist had been closely associated with the protest movement and began a hunger strike on June 28, demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and comprehensive changes to the country's education system. His 26-day fast ended after the government reportedly assured protesters that there would be a parliamentary discussion on the NEET paper leak, no legal action against protesting students, and financial assistance for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide amid the controversy.
Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on Saturday after months of protests across Delhi and other parts of the country over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination. He submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi just hours before the scheduled third round of talks between the Centre and protest representatives. His departure from the Union Cabinet fulfils one of the principal demands raised by students protesting at Jantar Mantar and is being seen by supporters of the movement as a significant turning point in the campaign.
