Students continued protests at Jantar Mantar on July 24, 2026 , demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protests followed a call for a nationwide demonstration by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) regarding alleged irregularities in the NEET UG 2026 examination.
Government Action on Paper Leaks
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on July 23, 2026 , that stricter actions against paper leaks would be discussed. The Prime Minister’s X post indicated these measures would be on the agenda for the July 24 Cabinet meeting.
Hunger Strike Ends, Assurances Given
Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike on July 24, 2026 . He stated this decision followed government assurances. These assurances included discussions on accountability for the examination system in Parliament.
Wangchuk’s post, titled “END OF HUNGER... BEGINNING OF ACCOUNTABILITY!”, confirmed the government’s commitments. Families of students who died by suicide in connection with the NEET paper leak will receive compensation. No legal cases will be filed against peaceful student protestors.
Wangchuk ended his fast in the presence of Union Ministers J.P. Nadda and Dr. Jitendra Singh. Leaders from the Apex Body of Leh Ladakh were also present. He had previously protested alongside students at Jantar Mantar. Police took Wangchuk into custody two days before the “Sansad Chalo” movement.
Earlier, 65 Members of Parliament from various parties had supported Wangchuk’s protest. He cited negotiations and the prevention of potential violence in the country as reasons for ending his hunger strike.
Key Dates and Demands
- July 20, 2026 : “Sansad Chalo” movement.
- July 23, 2026 : PM Modi announces stricter paper leak actions.
- July 24, 2026 : Cabinet meeting on paper leaks; Sonam Wangchuk ends hunger strike.
- Protest Demand : Resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Government Commitments
- Compensation for suicide victim families.
- No cases against peaceful protestors.
- Discussion on examination system accountability in Parliament.
