The district Congress committees in Panipat and Sonepat organized victory marches on July 26, 2026, celebrating the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The marches were dedicated to the youths and students who had initiated a movement against the NEET paper leak, demanding a transparent and accountable education system.
Panipat March Led by District Presidents
In Panipat, the victory march was led by Ramesh Malik, district president (Panipat Rural), and Baljeet Singh, district president (Panipat Urban). They were joined by senior Congress leaders, members of various party wings, and students. The procession moved through key areas, drawing support from local residents who had followed the student movement closely.
Congress leaders emphasized that the country's students had sustained a long protest to secure their future, enduring tough times but remaining peaceful and firm in their demands. They credited the government's response to increasing public pressure and the relentless efforts of opposition leaders, especially Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who raised the issue from the streets to Parliament, strengthening the movement nationally.
Leaders Say March Symbolizes Youth Power
Ramesh Malik stated that the victory march was not political but a demonstration of the youths' strong willpower and the triumph of democratic student activism. "When youth raise their voice for their rights, governments have to listen," Malik said. He added that the movement was not just about a single paper leak but about the future of the youth and the credibility of the nation's education system.
Other notable participants included Virender 'Bulle' Shah, Khushi Ram Jaglan, former MLA Balbir Valmiki, and Sachin Kundu. The presence of these leaders underscored the broad-based support for the students' cause within the Congress party.
Sonepat March from Gandhi Chowk to Ambedkar Park
In Sonepat, the district Congress committee organized a march from Gandhi Chowk to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Park. The protest was led by Kamal Diwan, district president (Sonepat Urban), and Sanjeev Dahiya, district president (Sonepat Rural). Party workers, students, and residents participated, raising slogans against the central government and demanding strict action against those involved in the paper leak, along with transparency in the education process.
The marches in both cities reflect a coordinated effort by the Congress party to capitalize on the public outrage over the NEET paper leak and the subsequent resignation of the education minister. The party aims to position itself as the defender of student rights and educational integrity.
Background: NEET Paper Leak and Resignation
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak in 2025 had sparked widespread protests across India, with students demanding a thorough investigation and reforms to prevent future breaches. The controversy escalated, leading to demands for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. After months of agitation, Pradhan stepped down on July 25, 2026, a move that Congress leaders hailed as a victory for democratic agitation.
The Congress party has vowed to continue pressing for systemic changes in the examination process to ensure fairness and transparency. The victory marches in Panipat and Sonepat are seen as a precursor to larger rallies planned in other parts of Haryana and nationally.
