Shiv Sena(UBT) and MNS Celebrate Victory March in Mumbai After Pradhan's Resignation

New Delhi, India Jul 26, 2026 ALN: Shiv Sena(UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) President Raj Thackeray held a ‘victory march’ at Vasant Desai Chowk near Shivaji Park in Mumbai on Sunday, a day after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Union Education Minister following weeks of nationwide students’ agitation over exam irregularities. The resignation came as a culmination of persistent protests that had gained momentum across various states, highlighting systemic flaws in the education sector.

The backdrop of this agitation was rooted in widespread dissatisfaction among students regarding the examination processes, particularly in relation to allegations of corruption, lack of transparency, and inadequate responses from educational authorities. The students' protests were marked by rallies, social media campaigns, and organized demonstrations that sought to address issues ranging from exam irregularities to demands for educational reforms. The movement was not only significant in its scale but also in its ability to unite students from diverse backgrounds, including those from rural and urban areas.

Several leaders from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) also participated in the procession, indicating a broader political support for the student-led movement. The involvement of multiple political parties underscores the growing recognition of the importance of educational issues in the political landscape of Maharashtra and beyond.

Speaking to reporters, Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Arvind Sawant vehemently criticized the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), asserting that their governance has fostered an environment of "hatred and arrogance." His remarks reflect a sentiment shared by many who believe that the current political climate has been detrimental to the youth and their aspirations. Sawant’s comments highlight the perceived disconnect between the government and the younger generation, who are increasingly vocal about their rights and needs.

Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Anil Desai emphasized that the movement initiated by students and the younger generation was “never just about seeking the resignation of a minister.” He articulated that the protests were a manifestation of deeper issues within the education system, which have been neglected for too long. Desai pointed out that flaws in the education system have far-reaching implications, including contributing to rising unemployment rates among educated youth. This connection between education and employment is a pressing concern in India, where millions of graduates enter the job market each year, often facing bleak prospects.

MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande remarked that the current generation, often referred to as Gen Z, has demonstrated that they are unafraid to challenge the government. This sentiment reflects a significant cultural shift, where young people are increasingly viewing activism as a means of effecting change. The victory march can be seen as not just a celebration of the resignation of a minister but also as a testament to the power of collective action and the potential for youth-led movements to influence political outcomes.

NCP(SP) MLA Rohit Pawar, who also took part in the procession, highlighted the unifying effect of the injustices faced by students. He noted that the protests brought together youth from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of solidarity and collective purpose. Pawar's comments underscore the importance of unity in social movements and the potential for marginalized voices to come together to advocate for change. The success of the students' agitation serves as a reminder of the impact that organized, peaceful protests can have on political discourse and decision-making.

A young participant in the march expressed that the students had been protesting for an extended period due to their belief that the examination process was unfair. The culmination of their efforts and the subsequent resignation of the minister was seen as a victory worth celebrating. This sentiment resonates with many who participated in the protests, as it symbolizes a hard-fought battle for justice and accountability in the education sector.

Another youth participant articulated that the movement served as a crucial lesson in holding the government accountable. The notion that citizens can demand answers and accountability from their leaders is a fundamental aspect of democratic governance. This shift in mindset among the youth reflects a growing awareness of civic rights and responsibilities, which is essential for the health of a democracy.

In the aftermath of the protests, NCP(SP) leader Fahad Ahmad criticized the police response to the demonstrators, describing it as unfortunate. He called for a meeting with the Police Commissioner to address the treatment of students during the agitation. Ahmad's comments bring attention to the often contentious relationship between law enforcement and protesters, particularly in the context of youth movements. The allegations of police misconduct, including an incident involving inappropriate behavior towards a female student, raise serious concerns about the treatment of protesters and the need for accountability within the police force.

Ahmad’s call for the suspension of officers involved in misconduct and the withdrawal of cases against students reflects a broader demand for justice not only for the protesters but also for the principles of democracy and civil rights. The scrutiny of police actions during protests is a critical aspect of ensuring that citizens can exercise their rights without fear of retribution, and it underscores the need for reforms in how law enforcement engages with public demonstrations.

Overall, the victory march organized by Shiv Sena(UBT) and MNS symbolizes a significant moment in Maharashtra's political landscape, particularly in relation to youth activism and educational reform. It highlights the power of collective action in addressing systemic issues within the education sector and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles for accountability and justice in governance. As the implications of this movement continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the demands for reform and whether this will lead to lasting changes in the education system and beyond.