Youth-led 'Cockroach' protests confront Indian authorities over education and jobs
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Thousands of young demonstrators in New Delhi marched toward Parliament demanding the resignation of the education minister, while police used tear gas and batons, sparking nationwide debate over the movement's political impact.
Riot police deployed tear gas and batons in New Delhi on Monday as tens of thousands of supporters of the satirical Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) advanced toward the parliament building. Police reported 60 protesters and 118 officers injured, and mobile internet was partially shut down around the Jantar Mantar protest site.
The demonstrators are calling for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, citing the cancellation of the NEET medical entrance exam earlier this year after a leaked question paper sparked widespread anger among students.
The CJP, which began as an online campaign in May, has evolved into a street movement representing many young Indians frustrated by unemployment, limited opportunities, and perceived failures in the education system. Analysts note that, unlike earlier large-scale protests such as the 2011 anti-corruption movement, the CJP lacks a nationwide organizational network but has tapped into a broader public mood.
"Is this how a government behaves? Using tear gas and baton charges against students? This is a worthless government," said Renuka Chowdhury, a Congress MP.
"This protest is different because it reflects a much broader cross-section of Indian society," said Yamini Aiyar, a senior visiting fellow at Brown University.
"After 50 years, youth have occupied the road to parliament," political activist Yogendra Yadav added.
"We will decide on how best to address the students' demands," a senior BJP MP told DW on condition of anonymity.
The clashes have not dampened the anger among Generation Z, with participants describing personal experiences of injury and disappointment in the education system. Left-leaning parties and student groups have been active on the ground, helping to mobilize supporters.
Senior government officials, including Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister J P Nadda, have met with CJP representatives, indicating a shift from earlier dismissal of the movement. While the CJP’s base remains largely urban, some analysts believe its grievances could resonate in rural areas, where young people also face limited prospects.
"This movement is likely to resonate beyond India's cities because the aspirations of young people in small towns and villages are no different," said political analyst Radhika Ramaseshan.
The CJP’s chief spokesperson, Saurav Das, warned that any change will require a prolonged struggle, emphasizing the depth of systemic issues in the education sector.