NEW DELHI:

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal has stepped up his offensive against the Centre's ethanol-blending policy, demanding that fuel stations must give consumers a clear choice between pure petrol and E20 fuel. Addressing a virtual and physical 'National Town Hall' on the E20 fuel crisis, Kejriwal warned that if the government fails to address public grievances, a protest march will be led to the Prime Minister’s residence on August 4.

Key Highlights from Kejriwal’s Town Hall Address:

• Ultimatum for August 4: Kejriwal announced that the party will compile public petitions until the afternoon of August 3. Following this, a delegation of around 100 people will march to the PM's residence to submit an online petition that has already garnered over 2 lakh signatures.

• "Why Force It on Citizens?": Questioning the viability of the policy, Kejriwal asked why ethanol is being aggressively promoted if it offers no clear benefits. He also alleged that ethanol production plants severely pollute underground water tables in surrounding areas.

• Demand for Transparency: Kejriwal challenged the government to make public the official study report which claims that E20 fuel causes zero damage to automobile engines.

• Turning 30 Crore Vehicles to Scrap: Slamming the Centre earlier this week, Kejriwal accused the Modi government of high-handedness, stating that forcing E20 fuel on roughly 30 crore pre-2023 vehicles currently running on Indian roads is effectively turning them into scrap.

Why is E20 Fuel Facing Nationwide Backlash?

The 20% ethanol and 80% petrol blend (E20) has triggered widespread discontent, particularly among owners of vehicles manufactured before 2023. Motorists have raised serious concerns, reporting:

• Drastic drops in vehicle mileage.

• Escalated maintenance and repair costs.

• Premature corrosion and damage to engine parts.

During the town hall, citizens and transport stakeholders from multiple states shared their firsthand struggles with E20 usage, amplifying pressure on the central administration to re-evaluate the policy.

ISLAMABAD / NEW DELHI — Amid escalating economic distress and mounting public frustration, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued a stark warning regarding potential youth-led civil unrest. Expressing concern over the state of the nation's governance, Naqvi warned that rising discontent among young citizens could trigger a massive political backlash. Borrowing terminology popularized during recent student movements in neighboring India, Naqvi remarked that if disgruntled young people unite, "they can overturn everything."

Admission of Systemic Collapse and Mounting Debt

In an unusually candid address shared widely across news and social media platforms, Pakistan’s Interior Minister acknowledged the profound structural and financial crises gripping the country.

"The system in which we live has collapsed whether you accept it or not. For 70 years, we have been trying to drag this system along," Naqvi stated during a public gathering.

Highlighting the compounding economic failure, Naqvi criticized the continuous reliance on borrowing. He noted that federal budget discussions consistently center on calculating annual debt additions rather than implementing systemic reform. With rising national debt and limited job prospects, the minister cautioned that the government's inability to fulfill the aspirations of its young population poses an existential risk to political stability.

The 'Cockroach' Terminology and Context

Naqvi's usage of the term "cockroaches" references a youth-driven, satirical political movement that recently emerged in India. Known as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)—founded as an online civic engagement platform—the movement gained significant traction among students and Gen Z activists protesting examination paper leaks and administrative oversights.

Addressing the risk of similar movements igniting in Pakistan, Naqvi warned officials against underestimating youth frustration:

"We are unable to give our youth what they want. You can call them youth or cockroaches or whatever. But if these cockroaches get together, then they can overturn everything."

Cross-Border Echoes and Regional Reactions

The social media traction generated by Indian student movements found resonance among young net-citizens across South Asia, including Pakistan, where youth face similar economic hurdles, inflation, and high unemployment.

In response to reports surrounding online solidarity between Gen Z groups across the border, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) maintained its focus on core bilateral issues. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the primary concern remains state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, urging Pakistani leadership to prioritize systemic stability and address domestic demands constructively.

With over 60% of Pakistan’s population under the age of 30, political analysts note that Naqvi’s remarks highlight a deep-seated anxiety within Islamabad's political establishment. Unless concrete economic reforms are enacted to address inflation and job scarcity, the threat of widespread youth mobilization remains a critical challenge for the government.

Tragic Crossing at the European Union’s African Frontier

At least 18 migrants have lost their lives and thousands more have breached border barriers to enter Ceuta, Spain's autonomous territory on the northern tip of Africa. The sudden, overwhelming influx of people crossing from neighboring Morocco has pushed local infrastructure past its breaking point, forcing Madrid to send military personnel and specialized security reinforcements to restore order along the frontier.

According to local authorities and humanitarian workers on the ground, most of those who died drowned while attempting to swim around the Tarajal beach breakwaters that separate Moroccan territory from Ceuta. Other casualties resulted from stampedes as desperate crowds tried to negotiate border fences and security gates simultaneously.

Military Deployment and Local Emergency Response

Faced with what local officials are calling a "serious humanitarian crisis," Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska authorized the immediate deployment of troops from the mainland. Armed forces personnel, naval units, and Civil Guard diving teams were dispatched to patrol coastal waters, assist with rescues, and secure key points along the border.

Ceuta President Juan Jesús Vivas urged national officials to declare a state of emergency. Local reception facilities—designed to accommodate temporary asylum applicants—are drastically overcrowded. Hundreds of new arrivals, including unaccompanied minors and families, have been forced to sleep outdoors on sidewalks, in public parks, and near border checkposts while emergency services distribute aid, blankets, and medical relief.

Factors Behind the Surge

While thousands of migrants—primarily young men alongside women and small children—continue arriving, the exact driver behind the sudden wave remains under debate:

• Legal Loopholes: Spanish officials point toward human trafficking networks taking advantage of a recent judicial ruling restricting the immediate return of migrants intercepted at sea.

• Route Hazards: To bypass heavily fortified land fences, many attempt to swim around breakwaters using makeshift flotation devices, inner tubes, or flippers, leading to high casualties in treacherous ocean currents.

• Diplomatic Dynamics: Ceuta and Melilla represent the European Union’s only direct land borders on the African continent. Consequently, migrant influxes at these border points frequently test the diplomatic and security cooperation between Madrid and Rabat.

Political Reaction Across Europe

The escalation has ignited significant political debate within Spain and across the European Union. Domestic opposition parties in Spain have labeled the event a major national security failure, demanding stricter border enforcement. Meanwhile, leaders across EU member states have expressed concern over border security, prompting discussions around regional immigration policies and maritime surveillance protocols.

New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla has reportedly resigned from the party and stepped back from active political duties, citing personal reasons. The news broke after sharp-eyed social media users noticed major modifications to his official account on X (formerly Twitter), where all references to his role as a BJP spokesperson were removed.

While no formal statement has been officially released by the BJP leadership or Poonawalla himself, source-based reports confirm that he tendered his resignation to the party top brass.

The Updated X Bio: Dropping the Party Tag

On Thursday evening, Poonawalla posted a screenshot of his updated X profile accompanied by the brief caption, "My updated bio".

His updated bio now reads:

"Religion: Islam, Culture: Hindu, Ideology: Bhartiya, Author: GST Ki Yatra; Lifelong follower of PM Narendra Modi."

Notably absent from the bio is his title as the National Spokesperson for the BJP. Despite removing party affiliations, Poonawalla reiterated his personal admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing himself as a "lifelong follower".

Hints of Transition Away from Active Politics

Poonawalla's social media activity over recent weeks had already fueled widespread speculation regarding his political future. Following his bio update, he reposted several clips from earlier interviews where he discussed his views on active politics and public service.

In one video clip initially recorded in January 2025, Poonawalla emphasized that societal contribution should not be tied strictly to holding electoral posts or party positions. He noted that political goals and electoral goals are distinct, arguing that individuals can make meaningful contributions to the nation even outside formal political structures.

In another clip originally shared in June 2025, Poonawalla disclosed that he had originally intended to step back from active politics following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. However, he extended his tenure to assist the party through critical Assembly elections across states like West Bengal, Delhi, Haryana, Bihar, and Maharashtra. Reposting the clip with the caption "I'm already 2 years late on this..", he signaled that the time had come to finally transition to the next phase.

From Congress Rebel to Prominent BJP Face

Shehzad Poonawalla, a lawyer and activist by background, first gained nationwide political prominence in 2017. Originally associated with the Indian National Congress, he made headlines after publicly criticizing the party's internal presidential election process, alleging non-transparency and dynastic favor toward Rahul Gandhi.

After parting ways with the Congress, Poonawalla formally joined the BJP. He was subsequently appointed as a national spokesperson and given organizational roles, including heading the party's social media wing in Delhi in 2021. Over the years, he became one of the most recognizable and vocal panellists for the BJP across television debates and digital media platforms, known for his energetic defense of government policies and sharp critiques of opposition parties.

Current Status and Political Outlook

While political observers continue to monitor developments, no official press conference or formal party communiqué has been issued regarding his future role or next steps. Poonawalla's departure marks a significant shift for the party's media wing, given his prominent media presence over the past several years.

At least nine people have lost their lives and several others are feared trapped after a four-storey residential structure partially collapsed late Thursday night in Bhiwandi, located in Maharashtra’s Thane district near Mumbai. Emergency response teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local fire services, are conducting an intensive overnight and daytime search and rescue operation to locate survivors beneath the rubble.

Late-Night Collapse Traps Occupants and Repair Workers

The tragedy occurred at the four-storey Kohinoor Building situated in the Balaji Nagar area of Gangaram Wada, Bhiwandi. The structure comprised 48 rooms across four floors. According to local authorities and eye-witness accounts, residents began hearing loud cracking sounds coming from the building structure between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM on Thursday night.

Noticing the alarming signs of structural distress, neighbors and residents acted swiftly to evacuate several families from the premises. However, at around 11:30 PM, a major portion of the building’s 'B' wing suddenly gave way and collapsed into a pile of concrete and twisted metal. Several occupants who were still inside, along with labourers engaged in late-night repair work on the pillars, were crushed under the debris.

Massive Multi-Agency Rescue Operations in Motion

Rescue teams rushed to the site shortly after receiving emergency calls. Teams from the NDRF, Thane Disaster Response Force, Bhiwandi Fire Brigade, and local police have joined forces to clear the wreckage and rescue trapped individuals. Heavy earthmoving machinery, including JCB excavators, cutter tools, ambulances, and specialized canine units (dog squads), have been deployed to detect signs of life under the fallen slabs.

 officials noted that search efforts are delicate and hazardous due to the instability of the remaining structure. As of Friday morning, nine bodies have been recovered from the site and transferred to IGM Hospital for post-mortem and identification procedures. At least three severely injured survivors have been rescued and are currently undergoing treatment. Authorities estimate that four to eight more individuals may still be trapped.

Building Was Previously Declared Unsafe by Civic Authorities

Officials from the Bhiwandi-Nizampur City Municipal Corporation (BNCMC) confirmed that the Kohinoor Building had previously been categorized as dangerous and structurally unsafe. Civic officials had issued multiple eviction notices instructing residents to vacate the premises due to the severe structural risks.

While a majority of families had moved out following civic notices, some residents continued to live there. At the time of the catastrophic collapse, structural repair work was actively being carried out on the building’s load-bearing pillars, which may have triggered the structural failure. Municipal and police authorities have launched a formal investigation to determine accountability and whether proper safety protocols were violated during the unauthorized or unsafe repair work.

Latest Update: The Delhi Government announced on Thursday that no legal action will be taken against the Cockroach Janta Party protesters involved in the demonstrations over the NEET (UG) 2026 examination irregularities.

According to a statement by the police, 13 FIRs had been registered by 6:00 PM on July 29 regarding the protests.

Key Decisions by the Government

• Immediate Release: Individuals who have been arrested or detained will be released shortly.

• Exception for Criminal Records: Legal proceedings will continue only against those with a prior criminal history.

• Closure of the Matter: The government has officially declared the matter closed, assuring that no fresh actions will be initiated against the general protesters in the future.

Four States Withdraw Cases

To date, four state governments have announced the withdrawal of cases and FIRs registered against students participating in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak protests:

1. Delhi

2. Assam

3. Maharashtra

4. Bihar (The Bihar Police previously announced the withdrawal of all cases registered up until 6:00 PM on July 26).

Flashback: Over 100 Injured During Parliament March

On July 20, the Cockroach Janta Party organized a march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament. Between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, multiple clashes erupted between protesters and the police.

• Breach of Security: Demonstrators broke barricades and marched through Jantar Mantar, Sansad Marg, Janpath Intersection, the War Memorial, Kartavya Path, and Vijay Chowk, reaching close to Parliament.

• Police Action: After protesters attempted to breach the Parliament premises, police deployed tear gas. There were also claims that pellet guns were fired at the students.

• Escalation: Images of stone-pelting surfaced late in the evening.

Delhi Police Investigation: Criminal Elements Identified

Using a Facial Recognition System (FRS), the Delhi Police identified individuals participating in the Jantar Mantar protests. The investigation yielded alarming statistics regarding the infiltration of individuals with serious criminal backgrounds.

Out of 2,873 individuals verified, 989 were found to have prior criminal records. The breakdown of these offenses includes:

• Robbery & Dacoity: 284

• Arms Act Violations: 229

• Snatching: 135

• Murder: 101

• NDPS Act (Drugs): 67

• Attempt to Murder: 62

• Rape: 61

• Molestation of Women: 25

• Kidnapping: 19

• POCSO Act Offenses: 6

Current Security Status: The Delhi Police stated they are maintaining a strict vigil over the situation. Security arrangements have been significantly tightened as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incidents.

NEW DELHI: In a significant admission, the Union Government has acknowledged for the first time that using E20 petrol (petrol blended with 20% ethanol) could cause wear and tear in certain older vehicles.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari shared this information in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday.

Key Highlights: Which Vehicles Are Affected?

According to the statement, certain older vehicles compliant with BS-3 emission standards might require replacements for specific rubber parts and gaskets due to sustained E20 usage.

• Target Vehicles: Mainly two-wheelers and four-wheelers manufactured between April 1, 2005, and 2016 (vehicles below Euro-4/BS-4 standards).

• No Engine Modifications Needed: Minister Gadkari clarified that studies show E20 fuel has no major impact on the overall performance or durability of these vehicles. No mechanical engine modifications are required.

• Routine Replacements: The affected components can easily be replaced during regular vehicle servicing.

What Parts Need Replacing and Why?

Ethanol possesses corrosive properties that can cause older rubber formulations to harden, soften, or swell over time, as these components were not originally designed for prolonged contact with ethanol. While the primary impact is on rubber components, some older metal parts in pre-Euro-4 vehicles could also experience mild effects.

The Affected Components:

• Fuel hoses and pipes

• O-rings and rubber seals

• Gaskets

• Rubber components inside the fuel pump

• Injector seals

Note: These are not core engine parts. Most of these rubber components are situated within the vehicle's fuel delivery system.

Estimated Replacement Costs

The cost of replacing these parts varies significantly depending on the vehicle make and model:

Disclaimer: Premium or luxury models (e.g., Mercedes-Benz) will incur higher costs compared to budget mass-market models (e.g., Maruti Suzuki).

Frequency and Impact on Mileage

When asked about the replacement intervals, the minister noted that there is no fixed timeline or kilometer milestone. Mechanics will check for signs of wear, degradation, or leakage during routine service intervals and replace them as needed. Vehicles will continue to run normally, though older models may require slightly more frequent maintenance monitoring.

Addressing concerns regarding fuel efficiency, Gadkari emphasized that vehicle mileage does not depend solely on the fuel type. "Mileage is influenced by multiple factors, including driving style, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and environmental elements," he said, adding that ethanol-blended fuel has been successfully used globally for over a century.

The study referenced by the minister was jointly conducted by Indian Oil, the Indian Institute of Petroleum, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

Latest Update: Junaid Malik, a volunteer who provided food to students during the CJP protest at Jantar Mantar, has approached the Supreme Court. He has leveled serious allegations against the police, claiming he was illegally detained, threatened, and his family was subjected to unlawful harassment.

Key Highlights:

• Illegal Detention: Malik alleges police held him hostage for nearly 6 hours before abandoning him at a deserted location.

• Interrogation on Funding: Police reportedly forced him to unlock his phone and questioned him about the funding for the food distribution.

• Family Harassment: Ghaziabad police allegedly detained his father and raided the homes of his relatives without following legal protocols.

• Supreme Court Plea: Malik is seeking the apex court's intervention to halt further coercive action against his family and ensure an impartial probe.

The Midnight Detention

According to the petition, the incident took place on the midnight of July 24. Junaid Malik was returning from RML Hospital after receiving an anti-rabies injection when he was allegedly picked up by the police.

Malik claims the officers forcibly took his mobile phone, compelled him to unlock it, and scrutinized its contents. During the estimated six-hour detention, he was heavily interrogated and asked, "Who is funding you, and where does the money for the food arrangements come from?"

The petition further states that after the interrogation and alleged threats, the police dumped him at a desolate spot on the Dehradun Road. Malik eventually managed to hire a cab and return to Delhi.

Raids and Harassment of Family Members

Beyond his personal ordeal, Malik's plea highlights the alleged extrajudicial harassment of his family members. He claims that the Ghaziabad Police detained his father and conducted a raid at their residence.

The police action reportedly extended to Meerut, where officers arrived at the home of his married sister's in-laws. Her father-in-law and brother-in-law were allegedly taken into custody by the police before all family members were eventually released.

Appeal to the Supreme Court

In his plea to the Supreme Court, Junaid Malik has urgently requested intervention to protect his family. He has demanded:

1. An immediate stay on any further coercive police action against him and his family members.

2. A directive ensuring that any ongoing or future investigation into the matter is conducted strictly in accordance with the law.

Stay tuned to our website for further legal developments and updates on this ongoing story.

Latest Update: Severe weather conditions have triggered unprecedented warnings across the region, bringing life to a standstill and raising imminent flood concerns.

Key Highlights:

• First-Ever Red Alert: The Meteorological Department has issued its first red alert for heavy rain and lightning in Punjab and Chandigarh.

• Rising Dam Levels: Continuous rainfall has pushed the water levels at Bhakra and Pong Dams closer to the danger mark.

• Tragic Loss of Life: A family of five, including an 8-month-old infant, died after their car plunged into a gorge on the Pathankot-Chamba National Highway.

• Himachal Flash Floods: Widespread devastation reported in Chamba; over 250 roads closed across the state.

Weather Warnings & Advisories

For the first time, a Red Alert has been issued for Punjab and Chandigarh, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by severe lightning. The Meteorological Department predicts this weather pattern will persist until July 31.

Authorities have issued strict advisories urging residents to:

• Avoid taking shelter under trees or utility poles.

• Stay away from waterlogged areas.

Additionally, an Orange Alert has been issued for the districts of Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr (SBS Nagar), Rupnagar, and Mohali. These areas face a high risk of heavy downpours, thunderstorms, lightning, and severe waterlogging.

Looming Flood Threat in Punjab

The incessant rain has significantly elevated water levels in major reservoirs, sparking fears of potential flooding in Punjab:

• Bhakra Dam: The water level has reached 1595.38 feet, which is just 84 feet below the danger mark of 1680 feet.

• Pong Dam: The current water level stands at 1331.58 feet, leaving a buffer of just 58.42 feet before it hits the danger mark of 1390 feet.

According to experts, if the current weather persists, the Bhakra Dam could reach its danger mark in 20 to 30 days, while the Pong Dam could reach its limit in 15 to 25 days. Should this happen, authorities will be forced to open the floodgates, significantly increasing the risk of widespread flooding in Punjab.

Tragedy on the Highway: Family of 5 Killed

The torrential rains claimed the lives of an entire family in neighboring Himachal Pradesh. A car skidded off the wet Pathankot-Chamba National Highway and plunged into a deep gorge.

All five occupants, whose bodies were trapped inside the vehicle, perished. The deceased have been identified as car owner Bachchan Singh, his son Ripan (who was posted at the Pong Dam in the police department), his daughter-in-law Rimpi, his niece Kirti Rana (who worked privately in Chandigarh), and his 8-month-old grandson.

The family was returning home on Monday night after the infant underwent ear surgery at PGI Chandigarh.

Flash Floods Devastate Himachal Pradesh

In Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, heavy rains triggered massive flash floods. Residents were forced to flee their homes at midnight to save their lives.

The deluge of water and debris has caused severe damage to homes and businesses, with one house's entire ground floor completely buried in mud. In the Sarol neighborhood, approximately 10 vehicles were heavily damaged, while several others were swept away by the raging floodwaters.

The catastrophic weather has paralyzed transport networks, shutting down more than 250 roads across the state, including the crucial Pathankot-Bharmour National Highway.

Stay tuned to our website for further updates, and please follow local authority guidelines to stay safe during this extreme weather.

Amritsar/Mohali: The Punjab Police recently presented gangster Jobanjit Singh, alias Billa, who was recently deported from Indonesia, before the Baba Bakala Sahib court. Following the hearing, the court remanded the accused to police custody for eight days. The police will now interrogate him to dismantle his criminal network and determine their next course of action.

Brought to India Under 'Operation Nomad Hunt' According to the police, the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), in coordination with central intelligence agencies, brought Jobanjit Billa back to India under 'Operation Nomad Hunt.' The accused had been on the run for a long time, prompting an Interpol Red Corner Notice against him. Additionally, five Interpol references were issued to secure his arrest.

Arrested in Jakarta via Red Corner Notice Reports indicate that Billa was apprehended at the Jakarta International Airport in Indonesia on July 20, acting on the Interpol Red Corner Notice. After completing the necessary legal procedures, he was flown to Mumbai. From there, the Punjab Police brought him to Mohali on transit remand.

Fake Passports and International Hideouts Police investigations have revealed that the accused managed to acquire a passport using forged documents with an address based in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Using this fraudulent passport, he fled India in January 2025. During his time as a fugitive, he constantly changed his hideouts across multiple countries, including Angola, Georgia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Indonesia.

A History of Over 25 Cases, Including Four Murders Jobanjit Billa has a notorious criminal record. According to the police, more than 25 criminal cases are registered against him, including four charges of murder, attempt to murder, extortion, and violations under the Arms Act. He is also a prime accused in the firing incident at Homeland Heights Society in Amritsar. The Punjab government had announced a bounty of ₹5 lakh for his arrest.

What's Next in the Investigation? During the eight-day remand, investigators will interrogate Billa regarding his gang's operations, the individuals who facilitated his escape abroad, the network behind his forged documents, and his involvement in various criminal activities across Punjab. Officials are optimistic that this interrogation will lead to significant revelations about other gang members and their international syndicates.

New Delhi: The uproar in Parliament regarding the 'Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026' is expected to come to an end. According to the news agency PTI, the Opposition has agreed to initiate a discussion on the bill starting this Tuesday.

Following a meeting mediated by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla with various party leaders, both the government and the Opposition agreed to debate and vote on the bill on July 28. Media reports suggest that the discussion is slated to begin at 12:00 PM on Tuesday.

Monday’s Disruptions Over NEET Protestors The Public Examinations Amendment Bill was officially introduced on Monday. However, discussions were derailed due to heavy protests from the Opposition, who remained adamant about debating the recent police lathi-charge on students protesting the NEET paper leak.

The Congress party demanded that Home Minister Amit Shah come to the House and issue an official statement on the matter. Consequently, the Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned four times throughout the day. Whenever the session resumed, MPs from Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) stormed the well of the House holding banners and raising slogans.

NDA MPs Welcome Dharmendra Pradhan Former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan arrived in Parliament on Monday for the first time since his resignation. NDA MPs gave him a warm welcome, honoring him with a shawl and a Mithila Paag (traditional headgear) as they escorted him inside the Parliament building. Slogans of "Dharmendra Pradhan Zindabad" were also raised. Pradhan had stepped down on July 25 amid the escalating NEET paper leak controversy.

Key Changes Proposed in the 2026 Amendment Bill The Central Government has introduced this amendment bill to introduce stricter changes to the existing 2024 law.

• Harsher Penalties: The amendment introduces significantly stricter punishments and heavier fines for those accused of orchestrating paper leaks.

• Fast-Track Courts: State governments and Union Territories will be granted the authority to establish special fast-track courts for day-to-day hearings of such cases.

• Wide Jurisdiction: The law will apply to all public examinations conducted by the central government and its agencies. This includes UPSC, SSC, Railway recruitment, Banking recruitment, NTA, and other central recruitment and entrance exams.

• Background: The government expedited this amendment following the massive NEET paper leak controversy and widespread student protests. PM Modi announced the tightening of the law on July 23.

• Task Force Formed: Additionally, a high-powered task force for examination reforms has been announced, which will be chaired by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.

New Delhi:

Amidst the fierce protests over the NEET paper leak case and the examination system, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post. This major political development comes after a continuous 36-day sit-in protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar led by the 'Cockroach Janata Party' (CJP). In the 12-year tenure since the formation of the Modi government in 2014, this is the first time a minister has been forced to resign directly due to public and student protests.

First Ministerial Resignation Due to Protest in 12 Years

In the political history since 2014, this is the first instance where a Union Minister had to step down under the pressure of a mass public movement and protests. Earlier, in 2018, the then Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar resigned during the global 'Me Too' movement, but that case was related to personal sexual harassment allegations from his journalism days.

Abhijeet Dipke's Strong Message After the Resignation

Taking a dig at the government at Jantar Mantar, Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) chief Abhijeet Dipke said:

"They used to say resignations don't happen in this government, but the world bows down, you just need someone who can make it bow."

Dipke further clarified that even though the minister has resigned, their movement is not over yet. Reiterating his remaining demands, he said, "Once a cockroach enters, it doesn't leave. The families of the children who committed suicide must receive compensation of Rs 1 crore each, and strict action must be taken against the policemen." The CJP declared this success as the 'Victory of the Cockroach' on social media.

Key Points from Dharmendra Pradhan's Letter

Following his resignation, Dharmendra Pradhan shared his resignation letter on social media. In this two-page, 575-word letter, Pradhan mentioned the youth being misled in two different places, alongside other matters.

Significance of Statements by Sonam Wangchuk and Mohan Bhagwat

• Sonam Wangchuk's Reaction: In a post from the hospital, Sonam Wangchuk wrote that this is a victory for democracy—direct democracy... a victory achieved from the streets. It is a victory of peace, patience, and perseverance. He congratulated the CJP and GenZ, thanking citizens from every corner of the country for standing up.

• Mohan Bhagwat's Statement: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat made a crucial statement at an event in Delhi on Saturday morning, saying, 'We will act arbitrarily, become the master of everyone by force—it cannot happen like this.' He had also remarked that today's new generation asks a lot of questions. Instead of giving orders, we should have a dialogue with them. We should explain the logic behind everything rather than commanding them. Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation coming right after Bhagwat's statement is being considered highly significant in political circles.