India's 'Cockroach' Protests Escalate Over Exam Leaks and Government Accountability

Thousands of young people in India continued to protest on Thursday in what has been dubbed the "Cockroach" protest, demanding the resignation of India's Education Minister following a scandal involving leaked exams. The movement has now become a symbol of broader frustrations among India's youth.

In response, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue during a televised address on Thursday calling for fast-track court to handle examination paper leak cases.

Modi also took to X to express "Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth".

Meanwhile, one protester, law student Daksh Bhargava, said “Rather than providing solution which is convenient for him, he should work toward a solution which is convenient for the nation and set an example”.

Modi's biggest challenge yet

The over a month long protests, which were sparked by leaks around some of India's most competitive entrance exams for medical colleges and governmental jobs, have expanded beyond exam grievances.

Demands from protesters also include examination system reforms and compensation for the families of students who died by suicide after the exam paper leaks. The movement, which has gained a wider following from Indians of all ages over government accountability, unemployment and economic opportunity, is considered one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government's biggest challenge yet.

Meanwhile, Thursday's overnight demonstrations in Jantar Mantar in New Delhi were met with police who used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds. On Monday, demonstrators had already experienced a similar situation when thousands defied restrictions and marched toward parliament.

Despite roadblocks, protesters regrouped on Thursday morning and returned to the protest site. Meanwhile, authorities closed down 16 metro stations across central New Delhi in efforts to limit access to the demonstrations.

Origins of the movement

The movement launched by the Cockroach Janta Party began as an online satirical campaign in May, however it gained ground when well known activist Sonam Wangchuk joined and began a hunger strike lasting more than three weeks. Leaders have said that they would not stop protesting until the education minister resigns. Meanwhile, Dharmendra accuses the opposition of exploiting students for political gain.

Opposition parties have shown support toward the protests, using the issue to challenge Modi's government in parliament, while other Indian cities have also backed the movement by holding events in solidarity. But demonstrations against Modi's government have led to a broader crackdown on activists, opposition figures and public protests.