Thousands of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar this Tuesday after police removed their stages and tents [3].
The return of the protesters marks an escalation in tensions between the group and the Indian government over NEET exam policies and broader political grievances. The clash highlights a growing conflict over the right to assemble near Parliament House in New Delhi.
Delhi Police personnel used lathi-charge and tear-gas shells during the unrest [2]. The police said the assembly was unlawful and that protesters attacked officers, resulting in injuries to between 115 and 120 personnel [1].
CJP representatives disputed the police account, saying that officers used excessive force against peaceful demonstrators [2]. Ashutosh Ranka, CJP National Spokesperson, said, "The government would have to come to the protestors if they want to talk" [1].
The unrest follows a period of volatility that began on Monday when police first cleared the site. During those initial clashes, between 10 and 15 protesters were detained near the Parliament House [2].
Union Minister J.P. Nadda and other government officials have not issued a formal response to the CJP's specific demands as of Tuesday. The police have issued reminders regarding Section 163 to prevent further illegal gatherings in the area [2].
Protesters continue to occupy the space despite the police presence, a move intended to force a direct dialogue with government leadership regarding the administration of national medical entrance exams.
“The government would have to come to the protestors if they want to talk.”
The confrontation at Jantar Mantar reflects a deepening divide between the CJP's grassroots mobilization and the state's security apparatus. By occupying a high-visibility area near Parliament, the protesters are attempting to leverage physical presence to force a policy review of the NEET exams. The high number of reported police injuries and the use of tear gas suggest that the government is prioritizing urban order and security over negotiated settlements with this specific political group.
