India’s Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi met students fasting for 23 consecutive days at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Saturday and criticised the central government. The students, protesting under the leadership of the “Cockroach Janata Party,” are demanding the dismissal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Gandhi told Prime Minister Narendra Modi that students want action rather than video messages or assurances.

Gandhi described Pradhan as a symbol of corruption and destruction in India’s education system. He said reports of a plan to move the minister from the education portfolio to another ministry would not be acceptable, arguing that protesters want him removed from the government altogether. Gandhi said the students would not be satisfied with any outcome short of the education minister’s removal.

Referring to alleged police attacks, pellet firing and baton charges against protesters, Gandhi demanded punishment for those responsible and said the prime minister should apologise to students allegedly abused at Jantar Mantar. AISA leader Neha Bora said discussions with Gandhi on India’s education system were productive. Bora, who has fasted with fellow activists for 23 days, also called for Pradhan’s immediate resignation.