Cockroach Janta Party Founder Returns to India for Education Protest
Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the youth-driven Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), announced he will return to India on June 6, 2026, to lead a peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar, Delhi, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over NEET paper leaks and CBSE grading issues. The CJP, a satirical social media movement with 22.3 million Instagram followers, has gained support from activists like Sonam Wangchuk. Dipke faces potential arrest but vows constitutional methods.
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When protest meets crackdown: Cockroach Janta Party protest in pictures
On July 20, 2026, Delhi witnessed massive protests by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demanding educational reforms and transparency. Central Delhi streets became a fortress with heavy police deployment. CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka met Union Minister JP Nadda and submitted demands. Activist Sonam Wangchuk continued his indefinite hunger strike after being forcibly taken to Safdarjung Hospital on June 18. Chaos ensued as police used tear gas and force against protesters, who reclaimed the Jantar Mantar protest site and rebuilt it overnight. The article includes multiple photos showing scuffles, police brutality allegations, damaged vehicles, heavy police presence, and protesters rebuilding the stage at Jantar Mantar.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CJP Protest in Delhi: Protesters Reclaim Jantar Mantar Site; Wangchuk Continues Indefinite Fast
On July 20-21, 2026, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) held one of the largest protests in Delhi in recent years, demanding government action. Thousands attempted to march to Parliament but were blocked by police, who used force that left several injured. An internet shutdown was imposed in New Delhi district. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda met CJP spokespersons and assured internal discussions on their demands. Police dismantled the protest stage at Jantar Mantar, but protesters reclaimed the site and continued a sit-in near Kerala House. Activist Sonam Wangchuk announced he would continue his indefinite hunger strike, citing the police crackdown. CJP accused police of excessive force, including pushing Wangchuk's wife, which police denied as false.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CJP Protest in Delhi: Protesters Reclaim Jantar Mantar Site Amid Police Crackdown
On July 20, 2026, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) led a large protest in central Delhi, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities. Police used teargas and lathi-charges to disperse protesters, resulting in several injuries and detentions. The protest site at Jantar Mantar was reclaimed by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke and supporters. An internet shutdown was imposed in the New Delhi district. CJP representatives met Union Minister J.P. Nadda to formally submit their demands. Activist Sonam Wangchuk announced he would continue his indefinite hunger strike in solidarity with the protesters.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Several injured in police crackdown on CJP Parliament march in Delhi
On July 20, 2026, Delhi police cracked down on a large protest march organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET exam irregularities. Scores of protesters were hospitalised with fractures, head and eye injuries, and tear gas-related swelling. At least 38 injured were taken to Lady Hardinge Medical College and 65 to Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. The crackdown occurred amid an internet shutdown in central Delhi. CJP representatives Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka met Union Minister J.P. Nadda to formally demand Pradhan's ouster. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, citing police brutality, said he would continue his fast until youth leaders are allowed to meet parliamentarians. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the police action, accusing the government of targeting peaceful protesters while paper leak culprits remain free.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Police Overwhelmed as Thousands of CJP Protesters Reach Parliament in Delhi Over NEET Exam Leak
On July 20, 2026, Delhi Police and security forces were outnumbered and taken aback by thousands of protesters from the online youth group Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) who marched to Parliament demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradesh over the NEET(UG) examination leak. Despite multiple barricades, deployment of 3,000 personnel, and an internet shutdown, large crowds of mostly students reached the Parliament doorstep before being dispersed with tear gas and baton charges. The protest was amplified by the forcible removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from a 20-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar on July 18. The government made its first outreach to CJP on Sunday evening via a DCP offering talks, which was initially declined. The Monsoon session of Parliament commenced on the same day.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Government cracks down on Cockroach Janta Party protest in Delhi, scores injured
On July 20, 2026, Delhi Police cracked down on a large protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET exam irregularities. Scores of protesters were hospitalized with fractures, head and eye injuries, and tear gas exposure. An internet shutdown was imposed in central Delhi. CJP leaders Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka met Union Minister J.P. Nadda, demanding Pradhan's ouster, compensation for NEET-related suicide families, and release of activist Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk, who is on a fast, condemned police 'brutality' and said he would continue until MPs meet youth leaders or him. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government's action. The protest continued at Jantar Mantar.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.India's 'Cockroach' Protest Movement Challenges Modi Government Over Education Failures
The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), a youth-driven protest movement born from a Supreme Court justice's remark comparing unemployed activists to 'cockroaches,' has mobilized thousands at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The movement demands the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over systemic failures in India's examination system, including paper leaks and irregularities. Protesters, many traveling long distances, have camped in extreme heat, calling themselves 'cockroaches' as a badge of pride. The CJP, which began as a viral satire brand on Instagram, now represents broader public anger against the BJP government's 12-year rule, accusing it of eroding trust, accountability, and constitutional values. The protest has drawn diverse participants, including retired academics and youth organizations, united in a peaceful strike until their demands are met.
The DiplomatMarch to Parliament: Protesters’ anger extends beyond paper leaks
On July 20, 2026, supporters of the newly-formed Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) marched to Parliament in New Delhi demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET exam irregularities. Police used lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the protesters. A notable common thread among protesters was that many had previously voted for the BJP or came from traditionally BJP-supporting families, making their disappointment more acute. Protesters expressed anger not only over paper leaks but also over what they perceived as government indifference and arrogance, including the government's refusal to acknowledge the protests while claiming credit for achievements like athlete P.V. Sindhu's gold medal. The protest was peaceful until police intervention, with some protesters being randomly picked up and stuffed into police vehicles.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Sonam Wangchuk continues fast after police action against CJP protesters in Delhi
Activist Sonam Wangchuk announced on July 20, 2026, that he would continue his indefinite hunger strike from Safdarjung Hospital, citing police brutality against peaceful protesters during the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) 'Sansad Chalo' march in New Delhi. Wangchuk stated he was 'touched and moved' by the protesters' peaceful conduct despite provocation. He demanded that youth leaders be allowed to meet parliamentarians or that he be permitted to meet them from the hospital. The protest, which drew thousands despite heavy rain, seeks the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak. Delhi Police barricaded roads around Jantar Mantar and detained several protesters. Congress leader Pawan Khera met Wangchuk at the hospital. Wangchuk appealed to the government to allow students to present their grievances before Parliament.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Indian Government Reaches Out to Cockroach Janta Party for Talks Ahead of Parliament March
The Union government of India has initiated talks with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) as the group plans to march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon session on July 20, 2026. Initially, the CJP rejected offers to meet with lower-level officials, insisting on dialogue with the Prime Minister or a Cabinet Minister. After submitting a list of ministers, CJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka are set to meet Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda. The CJP has been protesting, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and has gathered significant youth support. The talks come amid ongoing demonstrations, including a hunger strike by activist Sonam Wangchuk.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CJP Protest March to Parliament Demands Education Minister's Resignation
On July 20, 2026, hundreds of supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) marched from Jantar Mantar to the Indian Parliament in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities and a NEET paper leak. The 'Chalo Sansad' march occurred as the Monsoon session of Parliament began. The protest, which started on July 6, intensified after police forcibly hospitalized activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was on hunger strike. Despite no official permission and heavy police deployment with riot guns, protesters carrying banners and shouting slogans proceeded. Security measures included closing Patel Chowk metro gates. Notable attendees included actor Shabana Azmi. The CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke led the vigil and march, drawing large crowds.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Cockroach Janta Party holds night vigil at Jantar Mantar protest
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) held a 'night vigil' at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 19, 2026, drawing a large crowd from across India. The protest, ongoing since June 6, demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over NEET-UG 2026 paper leaks. The movement began as a satirical online campaign after remarks by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant. Ladakhi climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who joined the protest with a hunger strike on June 28, was forcibly taken to Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi Police on June 18. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke is also on hunger strike and called for the vigil, warning of a potential police crackdown. The Hindu captured images of protesters, posters, families, and political figures like Bhim Army founder Chandrasekhar Azad at the site.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CJP Night Vigil Draws Large Crowds Ahead of Parliament March
On July 19, 2026, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) held a night vigil at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, drawing thousands of supporters ahead of a planned 'Chalo Sansad' march to Parliament on July 20. The protest demands the resignation of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and focuses on education accountability. Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike, was hospitalized after being forcibly removed from the protest site by police. His wife announced he would end the strike if political leaders meet him and assure the issue will be raised in Parliament's Monsoon Session. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke urged peaceful participation. Support came from actors Shabana Azmi and Prakash Raj, as well as politicians from Trinamool Congress, CPI(M), and AAP. CJP claimed 20,000 people were already present before the main mobilization.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Neha, AISA national president, continues hunger strike for 22nd day amid CJP protests
Neha, national president of the All India Students’ Association (AISA) and a prominent face of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests, continues an indefinite hunger strike for the 22nd day at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. She and two colleagues demand education reforms and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities. The protest began on June 20, 2026, led by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke. Neha, 29, from Uttarakhand and daughter of an Army serviceman, became politically active through theatre at Delhi University. She was elected AISA national president in December 2024. Three colleagues and activist Sonam Wangchuk have ended their hunger strikes due to health issues or forcible removal. Neha vows to continue, stating the fight is to remind people that 'the divisive politics that the BJP has taught' is not their legacy.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Thousands gather at Jantar Mantar ahead of CJP’s march to Parliament
On July 19, 2026, thousands of protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi ahead of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s planned march to Parliament, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The unprecedented turnout followed activist Sonam Wangchuk's forced hospitalisation by police. Delhi Police issued a prohibitory order under Section 163 BNSS, banning assemblies of five or more except at the designated protest site with prior permission. The CJP's 1.5-kilometre march is scheduled for July 20, starting at 9 a.m. from Jantar Mantar to the new Parliament building. Support marches occurred in Mumbai, Nagpur, Bengaluru, Nashik, Jammu, and Guwahati. A resident doctor in Uttar Pradesh was suspended for supporting Wangchuk. Over a dozen students continued hunger strikes over exam irregularities, and CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke completed a two-day fast.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CJP protest in Bengaluru urges more participation, sustained questioning
On July 19, 2026, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) held a protest at Freedom Park in Bengaluru, drawing over 1,000 participants. While the primary focus was the NEET paper leak and what the movement calls a 'deteriorating democratic system,' the event expanded its agenda to urge greater public participation and sustained questioning of systemic issues. Actor Kishor addressed the crowd, emphasizing that the protest should not be selective and must go beyond NEET to other problems, calling for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and systemic change. Protesters displayed posters criticizing democratic backsliding and demanding accountability. The gathering also condemned the forced removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar to a hospital.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Night vigil at Cockroach Janata Party protest draws large crowd at Jantar Mantar
The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) held a 'night vigil' at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 18-19, 2026, drawing a large gathering from across India. The protest, ongoing since June 6, demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leaks. The movement began as a satirical online campaign and has escalated, with Ladakhi climate activist Sonam Wangchuk starting a hunger strike on June 28 and being forcibly hospitalized by Delhi Police on June 18. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, now on hunger strike, called for the vigil, alleging police plans to crack down on the protest. The Hindu captured images of protesters with posters criticizing democracy and displaying poetry, as well as Bhim Army founder Chandrasekhar Azad joining the demonstration.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Woman Throws Ink-Like Liquid at CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke During Jantar Mantar Protest
On July 18, 2026, during a protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, a woman threw an ink-like liquid at Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke while he was addressing a gathering. The incident caused brief commotion as supporters rushed toward the stage. The woman's identity and motive were not immediately known, but police sources confirmed she was detained. The protest, led by the CJP over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, had earlier seen activist Sonam Wangchuk forcibly removed by Delhi Police to Safdarjung Hospital due to health deterioration from his 21-day hunger strike. Security was tightened at the protest site and hospital. Dipke alleged protesters were detained during the police operation.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.M.A. Baby condemns removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar protest site
Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary M.A. Baby condemned the forceful removal of activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar and the detention of Cockroach Janata Party founder Abhijeet Dipke by Delhi Police on July 18, 2026. In a post on X, Baby criticized the Modi government's 'authoritarian attitude,' stating that 'silencing dissent cannot be a substitute for accountability.' He called for the sacking of the Education Minister over a paper leak scandal instead of cracking down on peaceful protesters. Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital on medical advice and Delhi High Court directions after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his indefinite fast. Dipke alleged he was beaten and detained during a crackdown and announced his own indefinite hunger strike.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke Begins Indefinite Hunger Strike as Police Move Activist Sonam Wangchuk to Hospital
On July 18, 2026, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, shortly after Delhi Police shifted activist Sonam Wangchuk to a hospital for essential medical care following a Delhi High Court order. Wangchuk had been on a 21-day hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam paper leak. Dipke alleged he was beaten and detained by police during a crackdown on protesters. Meanwhile, three students from the CPI(ML) Liberation’s All India Students’ Association (AISA) continued their fast at the site. Police have appealed for peaceful evacuation of the protest area.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.