New Delhi: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by founder Abhijeet Dipke, drew hundreds of supporters to Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Saturday as students, parents, and young professionals gathered to voice concerns over education, examinations, and youth-related issues.
The protest, held under heavy security arrangements, saw participants wearing the movement’s signature cockroach masks while demanding reforms and accountability in the education system. While the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remained the central demand, protesters also highlighted several broader issues affecting students across the country.
1. Resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
The primary demand of the protest was the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged lapses related to examination management and recruitment tests. Protesters cited controversies surrounding competitive exams and claimed greater accountability was needed within the education system.
2. Better Planning Before Digitalising Education
Several participants argued that the rapid push toward digitalisation in education should be accompanied by proper infrastructure, teacher training, and safeguards against misuse.
Supporters said technology can improve education but warned that inadequate preparation could create new challenges for students and institutions.
3. Restoration of Normal Education in Manipur
Another major concern raised during the protest was the impact of prolonged unrest on education in Manipur. Protesters called for urgent measures to ensure schools and colleges in the state can function normally and provide uninterrupted learning opportunities for students.
4. Fair and Transparent Competitive Examinations
Many demonstrators stressed the need for credibility and transparency in competitive examinations, including entrance and recruitment tests. Participants expressed concerns about alleged paper leaks and irregularities, arguing that such incidents undermine years of hard work by students preparing for crucial exams.
5. Student Mental Health and Accountability
Supporters also highlighted growing mental health challenges among students due to academic pressure and uncertainty surrounding examinations. Protesters demanded stronger support systems, counseling services, and greater accountability from authorities when students face distress related to educational issues.
Youth-Led Protest Gains Momentum
The gathering attracted significant participation from school and college students, job aspirants, parents, and young professionals. Protesters carried flowers, books, and copies of the Constitution while repeatedly calling for reforms in the education sector.
Throughout the demonstration, slogans demanding accountability, transparency, and educational reforms echoed across Jantar Mantar.
As the Cockroach Janta Party’s movement continues to gain visibility beyond social media, Saturday’s turnout highlighted growing concerns among sections of India’s youth regarding education, examinations, employment opportunities, and student welfare.
