India: 'Cockroach Party' protests escalate, opposition targets PM's home

Indian opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi led a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, demanding accountability for the alleged brutal treatment of young students by police. Rahul Gandhi stated on X that the group marched to Modi's home to seek answers regarding the harsh crackdown on demonstrators.

The "Cockroach Party," a movement primarily composed of young Indian citizens advocating for education system reforms and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, mobilized tens of thousands for the protest in Delhi. Despite a police ban, demonstrators attempted to reach the parliament building on July 20. Clashes erupted between protesters and police, resulting in at least 60 injuries from batons and tear gas. Police also removed protest stages and tents.

Participants, as cited by the BBC, reported that police used excessive force against everyone, including women. The police, however, claim 118 officers were injured and 70 protesters were detained. The opposition has condemned the use of force, while the Modi government has remained silent on the matter.

The "Cockroach Party" movement gained its name after a Supreme Court president used the term to describe young, unemployed activists and citizen journalists. While initially an insult, the movement has demonstrated its ability to mobilize tens of thousands, posing a significant challenge to Modi's government.

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We marched to Modi's home to demand answers from him regarding the brutal treatment of young students yesterday.