Delhi police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse a Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) march toward Parliament in New Delhi.

The clash highlights growing youth frustration over systemic failures in India's competitive examination process and the government's handling of academic integrity. The movement has transitioned from student grievances into a broader political protest against the current administration.

Members of the youth-led CJP movement marched toward the Parliament building to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan [1, 2]. The protesters said a controversy regarding the leak of NEET exam papers was the primary driver for their demands [3, 4]. In addition to the minister's removal, the group called for the release of activist Sonam Wangchuk [4, 5].

Police forces responded to the march with baton charges and tear gas to prevent the protesters from reaching the government buildings [3, 4]. The confrontation resulted in casualties on both sides. Reports on the number of injured protesters vary, with some sources stating 50 people were wounded [5], while others report at least 60 protesters were injured [1].

Law enforcement officials said 118 police officers were also injured during the clashes [1]. The violence erupted as students' anger spilled onto the streets, marking a significant escalation in the CJP's campaign of civil disobedience.

Beyond the immediate demands for resignations, a CJP delegation sought financial reparations for the families of students who died by suicide following the NEET controversy [5]. The group requested Rs 1 crore for the victims [5].

Despite the police crackdown, members of the youth-led movement vowed to continue their protests [2]. The CJP continues to mobilize students across the region to pressure the government for a comprehensive overhaul of the national testing system.

“Delhi police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse a Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) march toward Parliament”

The escalation of the Cockroach Janta Party protests signals a deepening rift between India's youth and the educational administration. By linking the NEET paper-leak scandal with the detention of activist Sonam Wangchuk, the movement is expanding its scope from specific academic grievances to a wider critique of government transparency and civil liberties.