Thousands of young activists took to the streets of New Delhi on Monday, marching toward India's Parliament to demand urgent reforms to the country's education and employment systems. Calling themselves the "Cockroach Janta Party," the youth-led demonstrators faced a heavy police crackdown involving tear gas and batons.
The unusual name began as a satirical response to a comment from India's Chief Justice, who had mockingly compared unemployed young adults to "cockroaches" during a court hearing. Activist Abhijeet Dipke turned the insult into a symbol of resilience, launching a viral movement that quickly gained millions of followers online. Frustrations had reached a boiling point over high youth unemployment and recent scandal over leaked national exam papers.
Demonstrators gathered at central Delhi's Jantar Mantar wearing cockroach masks, waving flags, and chanting slogans. Their main demands included the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the release of detained activists. To contain the demonstration, authorities shut down nearby metro stations, restricted mobile internet services, and placed metal barricades across major roadways.
Clashes broke out as protesters attempted to push past the barricades toward Parliament. Riot police charged with wooden batons and fired tear gas into the crowds, leaving several demonstrators injured. Some protesters retaliated by throwing stones, injuring about 50 police officers.
By late evening, police had cleared and dismantled the protest camp. Despite the crackdown, movement leaders stated they would keep pressing for government accountability, fair exams, and better opportunities for India's youth.