Activist Sonam Wangchuk is leading a hunger strike in New Delhi, now in its third week, as part of a youth-led movement protesting alleged leaks in the country's competitive college entrance exams. The movement, which calls itself the "Cockroach Janta Party," is demanding the resignation of the education minister, sweeping reforms to the examination system, and compensation for students who died by suicide.
The protest camp, where demonstrators have been sleeping under the open sky, gained momentum after the Supreme Court Chief Justice Surya Kant's remark comparing unemployed young people to "cockroaches." Supporters adopted the term as a symbol of resilience and used it to launch a viral campaign that amassed millions of followers online.
Abhijeet Dipke, a Boston University student and founder of the party, stated that the government has not responded to their calls for action, accusing them of ignoring Wangchuk's hunger strike. "If not fasting, what? Riots in the streets? That’s what we don’t want to do. So this is a peaceful way to take your voice to the government," Wangchuk said.
For many young Indians, success in a single entrance exam is crucial for securing government jobs and admission to medical colleges. The movement's online popularity has reportedly translated into growing support on the ground, with thousands attending demonstrations since early June. The participation of Wangchuk, a well-known climate activist, has drawn attention from professionals beyond the education sector, and opposition leaders and Bollywood celebrities have expressed their support.
Despite modest turnout at the daily sit-ins at Jantar Mantar, a designated protest ground, organizers say their resolve has been hardened by the government's silence. The education ministry has not responded to requests for comment. Senior government leaders have largely dismissed the movement, with the education minister suggesting its members were working against the country. However, some officials have acknowledged that students' concerns warrant attention, even if negotiation is not deemed necessary.
Organizers plan to escalate their campaign with a march to Parliament, aiming to bring their demands directly to lawmakers. They have indicated a willingness to continue the demonstrations indefinitely, asserting that they are prepared for a "long battle" and will not be easily deterred by the government's current stance.