A massive student-led movement known as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has sparked intense anti-government protests in New Delhi, India. Thousands of young demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following severe exam paper leaks, technical errors, and systemic corruption.
The protests which began in June, demand accountability for mismanagement of medical entrance examinations grew to include grievances against unemployment and government corruption.
The “Cockroach Janta Party,” a Gen Z-led movement that began after the Supreme Court chief justice compared unemployed youth to cockroaches, called for a peaceful march to parliament on July 20.
Delhi police used tear gas, barricades, and batons against thousands marching toward the parliament, injuring over 100 people.
Human Rights Watch demanded PM Narendra Modi’s administration to immediately investigate unnecessary and excessive use of force, asking the government to allow peaceful protests, and stop suspending mobile internet services.
Meanwhile, Modi’s administration defended its response while promising stricter penalties for exam paper leaks, though protesters vow to maintain pressure until core demands are met.
Indian celebrities support for students
Indian celebrities have voiced their support for the student protests with several actors, singers, and filmmakers have expressed solidarity with the students.
Some of the celebrities reported as supporting the students include Diljit Dosanjh, Sonakshi Sinha, Shabana Azmi, Pooja Bhatt, Aditi Rao Hydari, Dulquer Salmaan, Imtiaz Ali, Arijit Singh, Sonu Sood, and Dia Mirza.
