A large crowd gathered at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Saturday as supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), led by founder Abhijeet Dipke, launched a major protest demanding accountability in India’s education system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The demonstration attracted students, parents, educators, young professionals, and social activists from different parts of the country. Many participants wore symbolic cockroach masks and carried flowers, while others waved the national flag and held placards highlighting concerns about examination irregularities and student welfare.
Why Are Protesters Demanding Dharmendra Pradhan’s Resignation?
The protest centers on allegations of repeated lapses in competitive examinations and concerns about student welfare. Participants accused the education system of failing to address issues related to examination transparency, mental health pressures, and institutional accountability.
Addressing supporters, Abhijeet Dipke said the movement would continue until meaningful action is taken on issues affecting students and their families.
Five Major Demands Raised by Protesters
1. Greater Accountability in the Education System
The primary demand remains the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Protesters argued that leadership accountability is necessary following controversies surrounding examination management and alleged irregularities.
2. Fair and Transparent Competitive Examinations
Many participants highlighted concerns over competitive exams such as NEET and other recruitment tests. They called for stronger safeguards to ensure fairness, credibility, and transparency in the examination process.
Several families shared stories of students spending years preparing for exams only to face uncertainty due to alleged irregularities and paper leak controversies.
3. Student Mental Health and Well-Being
Mental health emerged as a major theme during the protest. Participants stressed that academic pressure, uncertainty regarding examinations, and career-related stress are affecting students across the country.
Psychologists and education advocates attending the event called for institutional mechanisms to support student mental health and reduce academic anxiety.
4. Better Planning Before Digitalisation of Education
Some protesters supported technological advancements in education but urged authorities to ensure proper training and preparation before implementing large-scale digital systems.
They argued that digital reforms should be introduced carefully, with adequate support for teachers, students, and educational institutions.
5. Addressing Regional Education Challenges
Participants from states facing social or political disruptions highlighted the need for uninterrupted access to education. They urged policymakers to focus on restoring normal academic functioning in affected regions and ensuring equal educational opportunities for all students.
Massive Youth Participation at Jantar Mantar
The protest witnessed significant participation from students and young professionals. School and college students joined alongside parents, reflecting growing public engagement with education-related issues.
Supporters raised slogans demanding reforms, accountability, and greater attention to student concerns. Many participants said they attended because the movement was focusing on issues that directly affect families and young people.
A Peaceful Demonstration
Before the protest, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke appealed for peaceful participation and respectful engagement with law enforcement authorities. Organisers encouraged attendees to maintain discipline and avoid confrontation.
Participants were also asked to carry books and offer flowers to police personnel as a symbolic gesture promoting non-violence and constructive dialogue.
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