The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) emerged in May as a satirical online campaign launched by political strategist Abhijeet Dipke after remarks likening unemployed youth to “cockroaches” sparked outrage. The movement quickly gained traction among students and young job seekers, transforming into a nationwide campaign demanding accountability over education and employment.
At the heart of the protests is anger over repeated competitive exam controversies, particularly the NEET examination paper leak, which many students say has undermined trust in India’s education system. Protesters argue that years of preparation and academic achievement are increasingly failing to translate into fair opportunities or secure employment.
Thousands of demonstrators remain gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi despite a police crackdown earlier this week. Protesters allege that security forces used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds, leaving scores injured. Student organizations from across the country have since joined the movement, making it one of the most significant youth mobilizations in recent years.
The protesters’ central demand remains unchanged: the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, whom they hold politically responsible for repeated examination irregularities, including the NEET paper leak.
The growing demonstrations present a political challenge for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government as frustration mounts among a generation that believes India’s economic growth has not been matched by adequate employment opportunities or a reliable education system.
