Thousands of people gathered in New Delhi on Monday after supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) called for a march to India’s Parliament. Protesters demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over allegations of repeated examination paper leaks.
Although police banned the march, demonstrators arrived in large numbers at Jantar Mantar. Students, parents, teachers, and professionals joined the protest despite heavy rainfall. Security forces placed barricades around Parliament and stopped the crowd from moving forward.
Protesters Face Police Barricades
As protesters tried to continue their march, police blocked the roads leading to Parliament. Tensions rose when some demonstrators attempted to cross the barricades. Several protesters claimed they suffered injuries during baton charges. However, police did not release an official statement about the allegations.
Organizers repeatedly urged participants to remain peaceful. Volunteers distributed food and drinking water while patriotic songs played across the protest area. Many people carried Indian flags and displayed banners calling for education reforms.
Exam Leak Allegations Spark Nationwide Anger
The protest movement began after allegations of repeated examination paper leaks. Supporters believe these incidents have damaged the credibility of India’s education system and reduced opportunities for deserving students.
Over the past few weeks, the demonstrations have grown into one of the country’s largest youth-led protest movements. Many participants say they want greater transparency, stronger accountability, and fair examinations for all students.
Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Gains Attention
The movement gained fresh attention after activist Sonam Wangchuk was taken to a hospital during the 21st day of his hunger strike. He has been supporting the protesters’ demands for education reforms.
According to his wife, Wangchuk has continued his fast while receiving medical care. On Monday, he appealed to doctors to discharge him so he could join the march. Hospital authorities did not approve his request.
Why the Movement Is Called Cockroach Janta Party
The movement adopted the name Cockroach Janta Party after a controversial comment made by India’s chief justice during a court hearing. The remark compared some unemployed young people to “cockroaches.” Supporters later embraced the term and turned it into a symbol of protest and unity.
Large Crowds Continue Peaceful Demonstrations
Despite strict security measures, thousands remained at Jantar Mantar throughout the day. The atmosphere stayed largely peaceful as organizers encouraged people to avoid confrontation with police.
Many protesters said they would continue demonstrating until authorities addressed their concerns about examination reforms and government accountability. The growing public support suggests that the movement could remain a major topic in India’s political and education discussions.
