Protests, dubbed the 'cockroach' movement, are increasing pressure on India's Prime Minister Modi government, fueled by allegations of examination paper leak irregularities and broadened support from opposition parties. The 'Cockroach' Janta Party (CJP), initially a satirical political group, has transformed into a movement capable of drawing tens of thousands to the streets, becoming one of the most visible expressions of public dissent against Modi in recent years.
The protests gained significant attention after activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk joined them on June 28, initiating an indefinite hunger strike. Wangchuk was later forcibly removed by police and taken to a hospital where he continues his fast. The movement's demands include the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over examination paper leak irregularities.
The CJP movement was inspired by remarks made by India's chief justice earlier this year, who used the word "cockroach" to describe unemployed young people turning to journalism and activism. The chief justice later clarified he was referring only to those with "fake and bogus degrees."
On Tuesday, the opposition Congress party demonstrated outside the Prime Minister's residence in solidarity with the protesters. Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi was detained by police during this sit-in protest, which demanded accountability for police action against students.
Minister Pradhan criticized the Congress party for "shamelessly exploiting students as political tools" and stated that their objective was "disruption for political headlines" rather than finding solutions. He asserted that the government remains committed to delivering "answers, reforms and accountability" for students, despite the government's readiness for discussion. Pradhan's resignation has been a key demand of the protesters.
Support for the CJP has expanded beyond the capital, with protests occurring in other major cities including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad. The protesters had been camped at Jantar Mantar for the past month. The movement has drawn global attention, signifying a growing wave of public dissent.