Crowd Floods Cockroach Party Protest Demanding Education Minister’s Resignation in India
Photo: Agamir Somoy
A massive crowd gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi today as the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) launched a protest demanding the resignation of India’s Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Supporters began assembling at the protest site from early morning. The party stated that Delhi Police has finally granted permission for the demonstration at Jantar Mantar.
Party founder Abhijit Deepke arrived in Delhi from the United States on Saturday morning. After landing at the airport, he posted on social media, saying, “Looking forward to meeting you all at Jantar Mantar. This movement must move forward on the path of love and peace. Don’t forget to bring a book and the national flag.”
Last week, Deepke announced that a peaceful protest would begin on June 6, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over allegations of irregularities in examinations and question paper leaks. Education activist Sonam Wangchuk also reportedly said he would join the movement if the minister did not resign by June 5.
Strict security measures have been imposed across the capital Delhi in connection with the protest. Additional police forces have been deployed at Indira Gandhi International Airport, entry points to the city, major intersections, markets, and sensitive areas. Barricades have been set up in several locations, and vehicle checks have been intensified.
At around 9:30 AM, CJP spokesperson Sourav Das confirmed that permission for the protest at Jantar Mantar had been obtained. Earlier, Delhi Police had stated that no formal application had been submitted, though they were monitoring the situation based on social media activity.
Security officials said more than 1,000 personnel have been deployed for law and order management.
The party’s digital wing spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said the day could become an important moment in Indian politics.
Meanwhile, Abhijit Deepke’s friend Usman Sheikh stated that the objective of the movement is important and should be carried out peacefully.
Within a few days, the Cockroach Janata Party has gained over a hundred thousand members and significant social media support, emerging as a talking point among young people in the country. As a result, the protest at Jantar Mantar has drawn widespread national political attention.
