New Delhi: Delhi Police resorted to lathi-charge on Monday as thousands of students and supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar for an ongoing protest against alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, particularly the NEET-UG paper leak in May.
The demonstration, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), began on June 20 and has continued for over a month. Protesters, including students from multiple states, are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the handling of exam-related issues by the National Testing Agency.
On July 20, large crowds assembled at the site. Some protesters attempted to march towards Parliament, which authorities had not permitted as Parliament is in session. According to reports, this led to clashes with police, who used lathi-charge when barricades were breached, resulting in detentions.
The protest has included demands for compensation of Rs 1 crore each to families of students who died by suicide following the controversies, cancellation or re-examination where needed, and systemic reforms to ensure transparency in examinations. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has been a key figure in the agitation.
Earlier, the sit-in extended beyond permitted hours. Participants engaged in symbolic actions such as banging plates and spoons. Facilities like a free library with donated books and langar services providing food and lassi were set up at the site. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has supported the protest, including through a hunger strike.
Student organisations including SFI, AISA, and AISF have participated. Appeals were made for support from farmer unions and the public. NEET aspirants who took the re-test joined and shared their experiences. The site has seen heavy police deployment throughout the period.CJP has described the movement as focused on broader issues affecting students and job aspirants in the examination system. No detailed official statement from the Ministry addressing the specific demands was available in reports. The protest continues with significant participation as of July 20.
