India's Education Minister Resigns, Exam Reform Task Force Announced Amid Protests

India's Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned over the weekend, following weeks of nationwide protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) demanding his resignation due to alleged irregularities in the NEET exam. Pralhad Joshi has been appointed as the new Education Minister.

Amidst escalating protests, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of a high-powered task force to recommend reforms for India's public examination system. The panel, headed by Nandan Nilekani, will suggest improvements to make examinations more reliable, transparent, and technology-driven. Modi stated that the government had initiated actions against those involved in exam malpractice and was strengthening legal provisions against paper leaks.

During the period of protest, Delhi Police issued traffic advisories and imposed prohibitory orders in parts of the capital. Restrictions were also placed on the operations of app-based mobility, food delivery, and logistics companies in designated zones to prevent movement into restricted areas.

The government also took measures targeting mesh messaging applications reportedly used during the protests. Notices were issued for apps like BitChat, Briar, and Bridgefy, requesting their removal from app stores and disabling of code repositories. However, these directions were orally withdrawn the following day.

Protests also extended to other states, including West Bengal and Bihar, where clashes and agitations occurred. In Kolkata, police used batons and tear gas to disperse demonstrators. In Bihar, internet and social media services were suspended in some districts to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain public order.

The CJP announced the withdrawal of its agitation after holding discussions with government representatives. The government has agreed to examine the CJP's five-point charter on education and exam reforms. The CJP stated they would review the government's progress in approximately four weeks and have called off their demonstrations in good faith based on the agreed terms.