Priyank Kharge condemns centre over student exam protests and ministerial resignation

Home Minister Priyank Kharge launched a sharp criticism of the central government, saying the youth protesting the NEET exam leak were demonised, accused of foreign funding and even called “cockroaches” who should be sprayed with insecticide. He highlighted that the exam paper was leaked on May 3, a re‑examination held on June 23, and that 21 students have died by suicide while hundreds continue to protest.

Kharge said the pressure led to the resignation of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, noting a compensation package of ₹1 crore for the protesters. He added that Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has been given charge of the Ministry of Education following President Droupadi Murmu’s acceptance of Pradhan’s resignation.