CJP Protests: Talks with Government Continue as Students Demand Minister's Resignation; PM Announces Stringent Law Against Exam Leaks

Talks between the government and the Candidates Janata Party (CJP) are expected to enter a third round on Saturday, following a meeting on Friday that CJP leader Ashutosh Ranka described as 'fruitful'. However, Ranka reiterated that the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remains the protesters' top demand, stating, 'If he does not resign, the government should state it clearly, as there is no point in continuing these meetings.'

The discussions have reportedly made progress on demands related to compensation and the withdrawal of cases against protesters. The CJP has been leading demonstrations at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi and across the country, demanding action against alleged irregularities in public examinations.

In a late-night video message on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked the public for responses and suggestions to his earlier address, where he announced the government's decision to introduce a strict law against paper leaks. The Union Cabinet has approved a draft bill to amend the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The proposed legislation imposes a minimum punishment of five years' imprisonment for paper leaks, extending up to 10 years, along with a fine of up to Rs 10 crore. The bill is expected to be tabled in the ongoing session of Parliament next week.

The protests have led to significant disruptions in the capital. The Delhi Traffic Police has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel in notified areas and use alternate routes under prohibitory orders issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. In addition, 18 Delhi Metro stations, including Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, and New Delhi, remain closed on Saturday, though interchange facilities are available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat.

In a separate development, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has sacked 47 officials following mass protests over alleged leaks in the NEET examination. Liquor shops in Delhi have also been ordered to close by 8 pm until the weekend ends, in view of the ongoing student protests.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides expected to continue talks. The CJP has vowed to persist with demonstrations until all demands, including Pradhan's resignation, are met. The government, on its part, is pushing forward with legislative measures to address exam integrity.