Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, was slapped multiple times during a protest rally in Jaipur on June 15, 2024 [1].
The incident highlights the escalating tensions surrounding the NEET-UG 2026 controversy, a national examination dispute that has sparked widespread student unrest across India.
Dipke was leading a peaceful rally at Shaheed Smarak [2] when the assault occurred. According to reports, Dipke was being carried on the shoulders of his supporters when he was manhandled and slapped by other individuals [1], [3]. The rally began around 3 p.m. [4].
The protest was organized to demand the resignation of the Union Education Minister over the NEET-UG 2026 controversy [5]. Dipke had previously announced his return to India on June 6 to spearhead these demands [6].
Police reports regarding the aftermath of the assault vary. Some reports state that the slaps were carried out by unknown men [1]. However, police said two youths were detained following the incident [7].
The event took place amid a packed crowd of students at the Shaheed Smarak memorial [2]. The assault was captured on camera, showing the founder being targeted while elevated above the crowd [3].
While the rally was intended to be peaceful, the physical confrontation underscores the volatility of the current student movement. The Cockroach Janta Party has positioned itself as a voice for Gen Z leaders seeking systemic education reform in the country [1].
“Abhijeet Dipke was slapped multiple times and manhandled while being carried on supporters' shoulders.”
The assault on Abhijeet Dipke reflects the deepening polarization and volatility surrounding India's competitive examination system. By targeting a high-profile youth leader during a peaceful demonstration, the incident suggests that the NEET-UG 2026 controversy has moved beyond policy debate into a space of physical confrontation, potentially further galvanizing student protests nationwide.
