AAP hails Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as ‘victory for democracy’, credits student protests

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Saturday welcomed Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, calling it a “victory for democracy” and attributing the development to sustained protests by students and youth over alleged irregularities in the examination system.

AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal said the resignation reflected the power of democratic movements and congratulated students for forcing the government to act.

“The youth’s struggle has finally borne fruit and Dharmendra Pradhan had to resign. This is a major victory for democracy,” Kejriwal said, adding that the decision showed governments ultimately have to listen to the people. He also urged the Centre to reform the examination system to prevent paper leaks and protect students from future distress.

Senior AAP leaders echoed similar views, calling for broader reforms in the education sector.

Addressing a press conference, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh claimed the resignation was only the second instance in the past 12 years where the Union government had been compelled to change course due to a public movement, drawing parallels with the farmers’ protest. He also said the reported removal of several National Testing Agency (NTA) officials marked a significant victory for students and urged the youth to continue pressing for employment and accountability.

Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said the resignation was the result of sustained public pressure rather than a voluntary decision. He added that the protests should serve as the foundation for long-term education reforms, beginning with stronger safeguards against paper leaks.

Senior leader Gopal Rai described the resignation as a victory for student protesters who continued their agitation despite police action and restrictions. Delhi AAP chief Saurabh Bharadwaj said the movement succeeded despite protesters facing allegations and limited political backing.

Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Atishi also welcomed the development, calling it a victory for the country’s youth and proof of the impact of sustained public mobilisation.

AAP leaders Ankush Narang and Kuldeep Kumar said the episode demonstrated the strength of collective action by young people and urged the government to focus on making the examination system more transparent, accountable and free from paper leaks.