India’s ‘Cockroach’ Youth Movement Founder Leads Protest Against Modi

Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of India's viral "Cockroach Janta Party," has arrived in New Delhi to spearhead a street protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration. This marks the first physical demonstration by the country's largest online youth movement, which has rapidly gained traction.

Dipke, 30, who has been living in the United States for two years, expressed concerns about potential arrest upon his return to India. On June 6, dozens of police officers were deployed near Jantar Mantar in central New Delhi, with some roads barricaded as protesters chanted slogans demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

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This is a peaceful movement for the youth of the nation.

The "Cockroach Janta Party" has amassed approximately 22 million followers on Instagram since its launch in mid-May. The movement channels widespread frustration over persistent high youth unemployment and recurring leaks of examination papers, which jeopardize the careers of millions of students. Political analysts suggest the group's growing popularity is beginning to impact Modi's public image, despite recent electoral victories for his party.

Adding to the dissent, wider public frustration is mounting over rising fuel prices and gas shortages exacerbated by the Iran war. The Indian government had previously blocked the movement's X account, a decision the party is contesting in a Delhi court. A senior cabinet minister accused the group of seeking support from Pakistan and the "anti-India gang."

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Dipke is “ready for a long and big day in India’s politics”.