‘Now or never’: Students defy Delhi lockdown to march on India’s parliament

A student-led protest movement has gained significant momentum in India following a major examination scandal. The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, a mandatory screening examination for medical college admissions that attracts approximately two million annual applicants, was compromised by leak allegations earlier this year. The incident prompted the government to order retests, leaving students exhausted after months of preparation. Reports indicate that at least 12 students died by suicide in connection with the scandal.

The Cockroach Janta Party, initially a social media parody account mocking judicial remarks about unemployed youth, evolved into a substantial political movement with millions of followers within weeks. The organization mobilized thousands of demonstrators to gather at Jantar Mantar in central New Delhi, with plans to march toward parliament. Abhijeet Dipke, a 30-year-old Boston University graduate who returned to India last month, has taken a leadership role in coordinating the movement's activities and political strategy.

Participants, including 18-year-old Anshuka Ruth Das from Gurugram, traveled to the protest site carrying placards demanding systemic education reforms and an end to alleged corruption in national examinations. Demonstrators also called for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Authorities responded by implementing extensive security measures throughout central New Delhi, including metro station closures, road barricades, and internet restrictions. Police officials urged protesters to disperse, citing overcrowding concerns at the demonstration site.