The streets of central Delhi have become a battleground in India's escalating education reform crisis. Thousands of protesters, many in their late teens and early twenties, are braving reported police brutality to demand significant changes to the country's educational system. The 'Cockroach Janata Party' (CJP) movement, named after the Indian term for "rubbish" or "trash", has gained momentum over the past month with its calls for government accountability, particularly targeting Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Monday's demonstration saw over 50,000 people take to the streets in a peaceful display of dissent, before escalating into clashes with police. Delhi authorities reportedly denied protesters permission to march on parliament and shut down the internet in the area, sparking allegations of unprovoked attacks against women and children. At least 60 individuals were injured, with one protester currently in hospital intensive care.
Witness accounts describe a 'wholesome' atmosphere early on, but it is alleged that police began using batons and tear gas to disperse crowds without provocation. Protesters like Taru, 25, have condemned the heavy-handed response, which they say has only strengthened their resolve. The protests continue at Jantar Mantar, a historical site now central to the movement.
The CJP's original demands centred on accountability for exam paper leaks and Minister Pradhan's resignation, but the movement has since expanded to include calls for Prime Minister Modi's ousting. The protesters' determination is driven by their desire to secure a better future for India's vast youth population, numbering over 600 million.
India's main opposition Congress party has capitalised on the growing discontent, hosting its own protest in Delhi and echoing CJP demands that Prime Minister Modi should step down. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining momentum for the burgeoning movement, although specific next steps remain unclear.