New Delhi: Talks between the Central government and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over the ongoing nationwide student protests have shown signs of progress, with the Centre reportedly agreeing to two key demands raised by the party while seeking more time to decide on the demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The discussions are set to resume on Friday.

The negotiations come amid days of protests by students demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities and question paper leaks. The demonstrations have drawn support from several Opposition parties and public figures across the country.

Centre agrees to two demands

According to sources, the Centre has accepted two of the demands presented by the CJP delegation during the latest round of discussions.

The government has reportedly agreed to:

  • Form a committee to review alleged examination irregularities and recommend reforms.
  • Initiate measures aimed at improving transparency and accountability in the conduct of national competitive examinations.

Officials, however, have not yet issued a detailed statement outlining the implementation timeline for these decisions.

Government seeks time on Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation

The CJP has maintained that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan should resign, holding him politically accountable for the alleged lapses in the examination system.

Government representatives reportedly told the delegation that more time was needed to consider the demand and that a decision could not be taken immediately.

As a result, both sides agreed to continue discussions in the next round of talks.

Negotiations to resume on Friday

The meeting ended without a final agreement, but both the government and the CJP described the discussions as constructive.

Sources said negotiations would resume on Friday, with officials expected to continue deliberations on the remaining demands.

The outcome of the next meeting is likely to determine whether the ongoing student protests continue or move towards a resolution.

Protests continue across the country

The talks come against the backdrop of widespread demonstrations led by students demanding reforms in the examination system.

Protesters have alleged irregularities in the conduct of competitive examinations and have called for greater transparency, stronger safeguards against paper leaks and accountability from those responsible.

The movement has also received support from several political leaders and celebrities, who have urged the government to address students’ concerns through dialogue.

Hope for a breakthrough

While no final agreement has yet been reached, the Centre’s reported acceptance of two demands is being seen as a positive step in the negotiations.

Political observers believe the remaining issue—whether any action will be taken regarding the Education Minister—will be crucial in determining the success of the talks.

Both sides are expected to continue discussions with the aim of finding a mutually acceptable solution that addresses students’ concerns while restoring normalcy.