NEW DELHI, JUN 21 (AGENCIES): Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) intensified its protest over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, with founder Abhijeet Dipke and supporters staging an overnight sit-in at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar and vowing not to end the agitation until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
The demonstration entered its second day on Sunday despite Delhi Police directing protesters to vacate the venue after the expiry of permitted protest hours on Saturday evening. Police had allowed the gathering only between 10 am and 5 pm and warned of legal action if the protest continued beyond the approved time.
Defying the order, Dipke and supporters remained at the site through the night, raising slogans and demanding accountability for the alleged examination irregularities. Dipke repeatedly addressed the gathering and urged more people to join the movement.
Protesters alleged that basic amenities, including lights, water, food and access to washrooms, were restricted during the night.
Dipke appealed to authorities to restore water supply to public restrooms, claiming there had been no water since Saturday night. Protesters later said drinking water services and lighting were restored.
Dipke reiterated that the agitation would continue peacefully until accountability was fixed and Pradhan stepped down. The CJP has also demanded Rs 1 crore compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the controversy and cancellation of the examination.
Hundreds of supporters gathered at the venue carrying placards and banging plates and spoons as a symbol of resistance.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who joined the protest, warned that he would begin a hunger strike on June 27 if Pradhan did not resign.
The protest marks the CJP’s second major agitation at Jantar Mantar over alleged examination paper leaks.
