Key facts
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced fast-track courts to handle exam paper leak cases.
- The 'Cockroach' protest movement is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- Thousands of young protesters have been demonstrating in New Delhi, with some clashes involving police.
- The protests began over alleged leaks in competitive entrance exams and have broadened to include wider frustrations.
- Authorities suspended Delhi Metro services at 16 stations to limit access to the demonstration site.
Thousands of young protesters occupied the streets of New Delhi, defying new restrictions in a movement challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The protests, dubbed "Cockroach" protests, began over alleged leaks in competitive entrance exams for medical colleges and government jobs but have expanded to encompass broader frustrations among young Indians.
Authorities responded to the demonstrations with tear gas and batons, and suspended Delhi Metro services at 16 stations to limit access to the protest site. Prime Minister Modi addressed the issue publicly for the first time, announcing the creation of fast-track courts to expedite cases involving examination paper leaks. He stated, "Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth!"
However, leaders of the "Cockroach" movement, which began as an online satire campaign, stated they would not end the demonstrations until the education minister resigned. The movement has gained momentum with support from various groups and activists, reflecting wider concerns about government accountability, unemployment, and economic opportunity in a country with a large youth population struggling to find secure jobs.