Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced his resignation on Saturday with marking a significant turn in nationwide youth protests demanding accountability over recent examination paper leaks.
The minister shared his decision on X (formerly Twitter) as police used tear gas to disperse crowds of young demonstrators in central New Delhi, just hours before student representatives were scheduled to meet with government officials.
"Considering the situation that has arisen at Jantar Mantar and across the country I have sent my resignation letter to the Prime Minister" Pradhan stated in his post with adding that he deeply respects the aspirations and expectations of the nation's youth.
The news triggered widespread celebrations among thousands of protesters gathered in central Delhi and across other major cities.
In response to the demonstrations, federal authorities deployed measures to restrict movement and communication in the capital by shutting down internet access in key areas and closing 18 metro stations.
Tensions had escalated earlier in the week after police used batons and tear gas on Monday against students marching toward parliament. The protests, spearheaded by young citizens, highlight growing frustration over question paper leaks, job scarcity and governance issues.
