India’s youth-led “cockroach” movement has demanded the immediate release of demonstrators detained during nationwide protests over alleged examination irregularities. The group warned authorities that continued detention and legal action against protesters could damage public trust.
The online Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which organised the demonstrations, said it received reports of students being held by authorities, particularly in Assam, West Bengal and Bihar. The group has been leading protests against exam paper leaks and other problems affecting competitive examinations across India.
Protest Group Warns Government Over Detentions
In a statement, the CJP called on authorities to release all detained protesters and withdraw criminal cases registered against them.
“Any failure to release those detained or withdraw criminal cases would amount to a breach of public trust,” the protest group said in a statement, adding they would take “further necessary steps” if their demand was not met.
The group claimed that authorities had earlier assured protesters that no punitive action would be taken against participants. However, it accused the government of changing its position after the demonstrations gained wider attention.
Education Minister Resigns After Exam Controversy
The latest demand came after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as education minister following criticism over repeated failures in managing competitive examinations. The issue had created frustration among millions of young Indians who rely on these exams for educational and career opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janta Party has gained significant support on social media since its launch in May. The movement was started by 30-year-old public relations graduate Abhijeet Dipke.
Thousands of students and young protesters gathered in New Delhi and several other cities last week. They called for accountability, reforms in the examination system and action against those responsible for alleged paper leaks.
Protest Turns Violent in New Delhi
The demonstrations in the Indian capital became tense on July 20 when protesters attempted to march towards parliament from the Jantar Mantar protest area.
Police used tear gas and batons to control the crowd, which resulted in clashes between security forces and demonstrators. Following the confrontation, several protesters were detained.
The issue also reached India’s parliament on Monday, where opposition lawmakers repeatedly disrupted proceedings. They demanded answers from the government regarding the police response and treatment of protesters.
Government Moves to Tighten Exam Leak Laws
Despite the disruptions, the government continued legislative work and introduced a bill in the lower house aimed at increasing penalties for examination paper leaks.
The ongoing controversy has intensified discussions about transparency and accountability in India’s competitive examination system. As the youth-led movement continues to press its demands, authorities face growing pressure to address concerns raised by students and protesters.
