Key facts
- The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is protesting in Delhi, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- The CJP cites the leak of question papers for a national medical college entrance examination as the reason for their demand.
- Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has begun a hunger strike in solidarity with the CJP's protest.
- The protests are occurring as reports indicate the government is considering a significant cabinet reshuffle.
- The medical entrance exam, taken by 2.3 million aspirants, was cancelled and is being held again after paper leaks.
Leaders of India's Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) are nearing two weeks of sit-in protests in Delhi, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to leaks of question papers for a national medical college entrance examination. The protests coincide with reports that the government is considering significant cabinet changes, which could include moving Pradhan from his current portfolio.
Social activist Sonam Wangchuk has joined the protest, initiating a hunger strike in support of the CJP's demands. Wangchuk, a critic of the government who was previously arrested, stated he would fast for six weeks unless his demands were met, expressing hope that the government would heed the public's concerns.
The CJP, which has rapidly gained a large online following, reflects growing frustration among young Indians regarding unemployment and examination integrity. India's youth unemployment rate is significantly higher than the overall rate, particularly in urban areas. The recent leak of medical college entrance exam papers, which led to its cancellation and rescheduling, has further fueled public anger. The government has taken measures such as deploying military aircraft for exam paper transport and temporarily blocking Telegram, where the leak reportedly spread.
Political reactions have emerged, with BJP party president Nitin Nabin criticizing parties like the CJP as "virus and cockroach parties" and part of an "anti-India gang."