Video: Massive Student Protests Erupt in New Delhi, Police Use Force

Thousands of protesters converged near Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday as India's Parliament commenced its monsoon session, directing their anger towards perceived failures and demanding accountability within the education sector. The demonstration, spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party, escalated its demands from the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to include that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Organizers asserted that over 50,000 people participated in the gathering. In response, Delhi Police implemented prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, restricting movement as the group planned a march toward Parliament. Security was significantly heightened, with Parliament routes sealed and surveillance increased. Several Delhi Metro stations, including Janpath and Rajiv Chowk, experienced temporary closures due to security concerns.

The Delhi Police refuted claims of violence or excessive force, stating the protest was managed professionally and urging the public to disregard rumors. Reinforcements were deployed across the New Delhi district. The protests saw participation from the All India Students’ Association, whose hunger strike concluded after visits from parliamentarians and public figures like Rashtriya Janata Dal MP Manoj Jha and actor Prakash Raj.

Environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently hospitalized during his own hunger strike, vowed to continue fasting unless the government acknowledges alleged systemic failures in education, citing recent NEET examination paper leak allegations, or provides assurances that the issue will be addressed in Parliament. Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, appealed for peace and focus on education-related issues during the planned march.