India’s Youth Demand Change as Exam Scandals Spark Mass Protests
Thousands of students clashed with police in New Delhi on Monday while attempting to march on India’s parliament. They demanded Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and reforms to the country’s examination system.
Police fired tear gas and used baton charges to disperse the large crowd, which threw stones in response. Many sought cover as tensions escalated. Delhi Police stated the protest was unauthorized. Internet services were cut in parts of central New Delhi.
This demonstration, one of the capital’s largest in about five years, highlights widespread anger. Students are frustrated by repeated exam irregularities, including paper leaks and technical glitches. Many also voiced concerns about high unemployment rates.
The satirical Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), an online movement, has mobilized millions since May. This group challenges Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, which secured a third term this year. The CJP’s name came after a top judge reportedly called young people “cockroaches” and “parasites.”
Last month, 2.2 million medical students faced a re-examination after their entrance test was cancelled due to a paper leak. This followed another controversy concerning the online marking system for nearly two million high school students.
Activist Sonam Wangchuk, on a 20-day hunger strike for student demands, was reportedly hospitalized before the protest. The CJP criticized police, questioning the use of force against peaceful demonstrators.
Prime Minister Modi did not directly mention the protests. However, senior minister JP Nadda met two CJP leaders. Nadda described the meeting as cordial, confirming he received a written petition outlining their demands.
Opposition leaders, including Congress party’s Mallikarjun Kharge, criticized the government in parliament. Kharge accused authorities of using force to suppress student voices. Opposition members chanted slogans for the education minister’s resignation.
Protesters demand government accountability. Despite India’s economic growth, many young people still struggle to find stable, well-paying jobs, fueling the underlying discontent.
