New Delhi: A massive protest organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in the national capital on Monday witnessed a police crackdown, leaving several protesters injured, while the party alleged that a young woman remains in critical condition following the action.
The demonstration, held under the banner of Sansad Chalo, sought the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak and other examination irregularities.
Delhi Police dispersed protesters at Jantar Mantar after the march gained momentum. The action came amid an internet shutdown in the New Delhi district. Several protesters were detained and injuries were reported during the police operation.
On Tuesday, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed that a female protester was in critical condition at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital after allegedly sustaining serious injuries during the police lathi-charge.
“A girl is in critical condition at RML after being injured during the brutal lathi-charge,” Dipke said after visiting the injured protester.
Amid the protests, a CJP delegation comprising Sourav Das and Ashutosh Ranka met Health Minister J.P. Nadda and submitted their demands, including the immediate resignation or removal of Dharmendra Pradhan.
According to CJP spokesperson Sourav Das, Nadda assured the delegation that their demands would be discussed at the “appropriate level”, but made no commitment on any action.
“The demands have been conveyed, including the immediate resignation or sacking of Dharmendra Pradhan. The Minister assured us he will discuss this at the appropriate level. However, no commitments have been made so far. Peaceful protesters will continue their agitation until the demand is met,” Das said.
Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk announced that he would continue his indefinite hunger strike, saying the police action against peaceful protesters had strengthened his resolve. He said the fast would continue until youth representatives are allowed to meet Members of Parliament or he is permitted to do so from the hospital.
The protests have intensified public anger over the alleged NEET paper leak and concerns surrounding examination irregularities, with demonstrators repeatedly raising slogans demanding the Education Minister’s resignation.
