NEW DELHI (AP) 鈥� Thousands of young protesters were camped on the streets of 滨苍诲颈补鈥檚 capital New Delhi on Thursday, defying new restrictions in the latest for a movement that has become one of the biggest challenges to Prime Minister Narendra Modi鈥檚 government.
滨苍诲颈补鈥檚 began more than a month ago over alleged leaks in some of the country鈥檚 most competitive entrance exams for medical colleges and government jobs. has since expanded beyond exam grievances, drawing professionals and families while channeling broader frustration.
Thursday鈥檚 demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, a designated protest site in New Delhi, followed overnight clashes in which police used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds, the second such confrontation this week.
On Monday, thousands of protesters had defied restrictions and before police broke up the demonstration with tear gas and batons.
Protesters regrouped by Thursday morning, returning to the protest site despite roadblocks, while authorities suspended Delhi Metro services at 16 stations across central New Delhi in an effort to limit access to the demonstrations.
The issue of exam leaks has become a powerful symbol of frustration for millions of young Indians. Protesters are demanding the resignation of , examination system reforms and compensation for families of students who died by suicide after exam paper leaks.
Facing mounting pressure, Modi addressed the issue publicly for the first time Thursday, announcing fast-track courts to handle examination paper leak cases. Fast-track courts are special courts created to speed up cases in 滨苍诲颈补鈥檚 notoriously slow justice system.
鈥淣othing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth!,鈥� Modi wrote on X.
Cockroach party stays true to satirical origins
Leaders of the Cockroach Janta Party, which launched the protest movement, said they would not end the demonstrations until the education minister resigned. Staying true to the movement鈥檚 tongue-in-cheek style, its founder, Abhijeet Dipke, responded by posting a meme of Pradhan captioned, 鈥淗i, my name is Nothing.鈥�
The Cockroach movement began as online satire campaign in May and moved to the streets in June through smaller protests across cities. It gained momentum after prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk joined the demonstration and began a hunger strike that has lasted more than three weeks. over the weekend.
For many young Indians, the protests have become one of the few visible expressions of dissent in a country where demonstrations against Modi鈥檚 government have led to opposition figures and
The movement鈥檚 rapid growth beyond student groups reflects wider frustration among young Indians and echoes a broader trend , where young people have driven anti-government movements in recent years.
The movement also has gained a following among Indians of all ages over concerns about government accountability, unemployment and economic opportunity.
India has one of the world鈥檚 youngest populations, with millions entering a labor market that has struggled to create enough secure, well-paying jobs. Despite years of rapid economic growth, many young people say their prospects have not improved.
As one of the country鈥檚 largest voting blocs, 滨苍诲颈补鈥檚 youth could also become an increasingly important political force ahead of future elections.
Copyright © 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.
