Key facts
- Rahul Gandhi was detained during youth-led protests in Delhi.
- Protesters are demanding education reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- Gandhi called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resignation.
- Police used batons and tear gas to disperse demonstrators.
- The CJP, a youth movement, is organizing the protests.
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi was detained in Delhi amid escalating youth-led protests demanding education reforms and the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The demonstrations, organized by the 'Cockroach Janta Party' (CJP), saw thousands gather at Jantar Mantar despite heavy rains.
Gandhi stated that the government must apologize to students for the crackdown and that the Congress party protested outside Modi's house as they were not allowed to raise the issue in parliament. Federal Minister Jitendra Singh denied Gandhi's allegations, stating the government had accepted his demand for a discussion but accused Gandhi of changing his stance. Education Minister Pradhan criticized the Congress for using students as political tools.
Monday saw large demonstrations with police using batons and tear gas, resulting in injuries on both sides. The CJP, inspired by remarks from India's chief justice, has grown into a movement capable of drawing tens of thousands to the streets. Activist Sonam Wangchuk, on an indefinite hunger strike, was forcibly removed by police and taken to hospital.
The movement has become a significant expression of public dissent against Modi, with protests spreading to other major cities.