Thousands Clash with Police During Delhi March Over Education, Jobs

New Delhi, July 21: Thousands of protesters demanding reforms in India's education system and greater employment opportunities clashed with police in the national capital on Monday after attempting to march towards Parliament despite prohibitory orders, leaving several people injured and disrupting normal life in parts of the city.

The protesters, led by the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), were stopped by heavy police barricades near Parliament. Security personnel used tear gas and batons to disperse demonstrators after some attempted to breach restricted areas. Mobile internet services were temporarily suspended in parts of central Delhi as a precaution.

The protests, which began over alleged leaks in the NEET-UG medical entrance examination, have grown into a nationwide movement highlighting concerns over examination integrity, unemployment, delays in recruitment and the lack of educational reforms.

Demonstrators alleged that repeated examination paper leaks have undermined merit and shattered the aspirations of millions of students preparing for competitive examinations. Protesters said the issue reflects broader failures in governance and youth employment.

The Cockroach Janta Party, founded by activist Dipke, has gained support through social media campaigns and student mobilisation. The group's name was adopted after a controversial remark reportedly made by India's Chief Justice comparing sections of unemployed youth to "cockroaches." Though the comment was later withdrawn, supporters embraced the term as a symbol of resilience.

The movement received a further boost after climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk launched an indefinite hunger strike on June 28 at Jantar Mantar, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and comprehensive reforms in the education sector. Wangchuk was shifted to hospital after 21 days on medical advice and court directions but has continued his fast, according to his family.

Despite authorities denying permission for a march to Parliament during the opening day of the Monsoon Session, thousands gathered at Jantar Mantar from early morning. The protest remained peaceful initially, with volunteers distributing food and water and organisers urging participants to maintain discipline.

Tensions escalated when protesters advanced towards Parliament and encountered multiple police barricades. While many staged a peaceful sit-in, others attempted to move through adjoining streets, prompting police action.

Several protesters alleged they were injured in the baton charge. Volunteer doctor Gaurish Batra said medical teams treated demonstrators with head injuries and suspected fractures. Police did not immediately respond to allegations of excessive force, though reports said some protesters also threw stones during the confrontation.

Amid the standoff, two representatives of the CJP met Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda and submitted a memorandum seeking reforms in the education system and greater accountability. According to CJP spokesperson Saurav Das, the minister assured the delegation that their concerns would be conveyed to the government and appealed to protesters to restore normalcy.

The demonstrations coincided with the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session, where Opposition members disrupted proceedings over allegations relating to examination paper leaks and governance issues.

Police cleared the protest site at Jantar Mantar by evening and dispersed the remaining demonstrators. There was brief confusion over reports that CJP founder Dipke had been detained, but organisers later claimed protesters had prevented his arrest, while Delhi Police denied taking him into custody.

The protests have emerged as one of the most significant youth-led demonstrations in recent years, bringing together students, teachers, parents and professionals demanding greater transparency, accountability and employment opportunities.

Courtesy : BBC