India's 'Cockroach Party' launches indefinite protest demanding Education Minister's resignation over exam leaks

A youth movement in India, known as the "Cockroach Party" (CJP), has initiated an indefinite protest in New Delhi, escalating demands for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The group alleges widespread leaks in national university entrance examinations, a scandal that has fueled numerous protests across the country in recent weeks.

The demonstration, led by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, reached a bureaucratic impasse with authorities. Shortly after the protest began, described as "peaceful," the Delhi Police revoked the demonstration's permit and ordered an immediate dispersal. Despite warnings and the anticipation of arrests, Dipke urged protesters to continue, positioning himself on the main stage.

"We will remain here peacefully. I know you are about to arrest me, but I ask you to continue the protest... You (the Police) warn us that the protest time has ended, but you should warn Pradhan that his time in the ministry has ended," Dipke declared, defiantly addressing the authorities.

Protesters, who traveled from various parts of India, gathered carrying plates, metal spoons, and copies of the Indian Constitution. Their central demand, under the slogan "Pradhan Out!", is for the government to dismiss the minister. The CJP has emerged as a significant political force, reportedly surpassing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in online followers among the "Gen Z" demographic, with over 22 million followers.

The protest gains further urgency as over two million medical aspirants are set to retake the NEET exam on Sunday following a massive leak of answers from the initial test. This, along with other demands for structural reform of the National Testing Agency (NTA) for its failure to curb exam leaks, fuels the CJP's call for Minister Pradhan's permanent removal.

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We will remain here peacefully. I know you are about to arrest me, but I ask you to continue the protest (...) You (the Police) warn us that the protest time has ended, but you should warn Pradhan that his time in the ministry has ended.