Thousands of protesters have gathered in India’s capital, New Delhi, attempting to march toward Parliament after the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) organised a nationwide demonstration demanding major reforms to the country’s education system.
Large crowds assembled at the designated protest site as demonstrators called for improvements in education policy, student welfare, and equal access to quality learning opportunities. The protest has attracted significant public attention, with many participants travelling from different parts of the country to join the march.
Security has been tightened across central New Delhi, with hundreds of police officers and paramilitary personnel deployed around Parliament and key government buildings. Authorities have established barricades and increased surveillance in anticipation of possible clashes as protesters attempt to move closer to the legislature.
The situation became more tense following the hospitalisation of activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on the 21st day of a hunger strike in support of the movement. Police transferred Wangchuk to a hospital on Saturday, a move that sparked outrage among supporters and intensified calls for the demonstration.
Many protesters described Wangchuk’s removal as an attempt to weaken the campaign, while organisers insisted the movement would continue despite the setback.
Delhi Police have stated that permission was not granted for the march to Parliament, citing security concerns and public safety. Officials warned demonstrators against violating restrictions and urged organisers to cooperate with law enforcement.
However, leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party said the protest would go ahead regardless of the ban, arguing that peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right and that their demands deserve national attention.
Despite its unusual name, the Cockroach Janta Party is not an officially registered political party. The movement began as a satirical campaign highlighting frustrations with governance and public policy but has since evolved into a broad grassroots movement attracting widespread public support, particularly among students, educators, and young people.
Organisers say the campaign seeks meaningful reforms to India’s education system, including better investment in schools, improved learning standards, and policies that expand opportunities for students across the country.
The protest has also gained momentum on social media, where supporters have shared videos and messages encouraging peaceful participation while calling on the government to engage in dialogue with movement leaders.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as thousands remain gathered near the protest site. Security forces have maintained a strong presence to prevent demonstrators from reaching Parliament without authorisation.
At the time of reporting, the march remained ongoing, with organisers insisting they would continue pressing for education reforms despite official restrictions.
The demonstration marks one of the largest education-focused protests in recent months and highlights growing public concern over the future of India’s education sector.
