Delhi Police Clash With Youth Protesters Demanding Minister's Resignation

A youth-led movement spearheaded by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) escalated into violent clashes in New Delhi on July 20, 2026. Protesters, led by political strategist Abhijeet Dipke, attempted a march to Parliament to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following alleged paper leaks in the NEET-UG medical entrance exams and other irregularities that reportedly led to numerous student suicides.

Delhi Police used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowds, resulting in 178 injuries, including 118 security personnel and 60 protesters. Authorities reported damage to approximately 20 government vehicles and filed five criminal cases for vandalism. The movement was further galvanized after activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was on an indefinite hunger strike for education reform and Ladakh's statehood, was forcibly removed to a government hospital.

Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi supported the cause by camping outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence. While Union Minister JP Nadda held preliminary talks with CJP representatives, the group dismissed the meeting as a waste of time.

Following the crackdown, a public dispute erupted over the detention of protesters. CJP spokesperson Saurav Das alleged the use of lethal force and the denial of legal counsel. Although Delhi Police initially denied that anyone was in custody, they subsequently released all detainees. Consequently, the CJP called off a planned dharna at police headquarters, and Dipke ruled out further marches to Parliament to prevent additional injuries.