Delhi police used tear gas and lathi charges to clear protesters from Jantar Mantar on Wednesday following violent clashes [1].
The escalation marks a volatile turn in a long-running demonstration that challenges the integrity of India's national examination systems. The unrest highlights growing tensions between civil society activists and state security forces in the capital.
Security personnel were targeted during the clashes, which broke out as protesters attempted to maintain their presence at the site [1, 3]. Police responded with force to disperse the crowds, leading to several arrests. Delhi Police said they detained 70 protesters during the operation [1].
The protest is led by Abhijeet Dipke and has been ongoing since June 20, 2024 [2, 3]. The demonstrators are calling for the resignation of the Prime Minister, citing alleged irregularities in high-stakes examinations, such as the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) [2].
Dipke criticized the security crackdown and the state of civil liberties in the country. "They've made it like North Korea," Dipke said [1].
Authorities have tightened security around the Jantar Mantar area to prevent further gatherings [2]. The area was cleared after the police deployment of tear gas and lathi charges, though the broader movement continues to seek accountability for the exam irregularities [1].
“"They've made it like North Korea"”
The clash at Jantar Mantar underscores the deep-seated frustration among students and activists regarding the transparency of India's competitive exams. By linking administrative failures in the NEET exams to a demand for the Prime Minister's resignation, the movement has shifted from a policy-based grievance to a direct political challenge, prompting a more aggressive security response from the state.
