Thousands of Young People Protest in New Delhi.
Tens of thousands of demonstrators, mainly students and Generation Z, marched through New Delhi despite an official ban on public gatherings. Although authorities blocked roads, suspended internet service in the city center, and used tear gas and batons, the protest continued throughout the day. As a result, it became one of India’s largest anti-government demonstrations in recent years. Protesters demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and called for greater accountability.
Exam Scandal Fuels Public Frustration.
The march was organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a youth-led movement created after India’s Chief Justice referred to some unemployed young people as “cockroaches.” Initially, the group emerged as satire. However, it quickly evolved into a political movement. Its main demand centers on the 2026 medical entrance examination, which was leaked and later canceled. More than 2 million students competed for only 130,000 places, and the controversy has been linked to over 20 student suicides. In addition, many participants criticized the lack of employment opportunities for young people.
Authorities Face Growing Criticism.
For weeks, government officials dismissed the protesters’ demands. Nevertheless, the large turnout forced authorities to hold a brief meeting with CJP representatives. Even so, organizers reported that no concrete agreements were reached. Meanwhile, opposition leaders condemned the police response, arguing that the use of force against peaceful demonstrators raised serious concerns about freedom of expression and democratic participation.
Hunger Strike Expands the Movement.
The demonstrations gained further support from engineer and education activist Sonam Wangchuk, who began a 21-day hunger strike to demand the minister’s resignation. After police removed him from the protest camp and transferred him to a government hospital, supporters accused authorities of unlawfully restricting his freedom. Consequently, CJP members also started a hunger strike and pledged to continue their protests. By the end of the day, the education minister had not responded publicly, while organizers announced that the demonstrations would continue.
Reference
Ellis-Petersen, H. (2026, July 20). Tens of thousands of Cockroach party protesters defy police with Delhi march. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jul/20/cockroach-janta-party-protest-march-sonam-wangchuk-india-parliament