India activists demand release of detained protesters after minister's resignation

Activists in India are demanding the release of protesters detained following nationwide demonstrations over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. The online "Cockroach Janta Party" (CJP), which spearheaded protests that led to the education minister's resignation, reported students were held in detention, particularly in Assam, West Bengal, and Bihar.

The CJP accused the government of breaking an agreement not to take punitive action against demonstrators. "If the government does not honour the agreement and release everyone detained or arrested, we will be compelled to resume the protest," said CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka. The group claims at least 100 people were arrested, many on stringent non-bailable charges.

The protests erupted over repeated failures in competitive exams, fueling anger among millions of young Indians. The movement, launched in May by Abhijeet Dipke, has gained millions of social media followers. Demonstrations in New Delhi turned violent on July 20, with police using tear gas and batons to disperse crowds attempting to march towards parliament, leading to clashes and arrests.

In a separate incident in Bihar, a police official was suspended for using an assault rifle to disperse student protesters, injuring three people. The Chief Justice of India has called for an independent investigation into allegations of police brutality. The CJP has established a legal fund to assist protesters facing criminal cases.

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If the government does not honour the agreement and release everyone detained or arrested, we will be compelled to resume the protest.