Clashes Erupt as India's 'Cockroach Party' Protests in Delhi

Thousands of protesters, many affiliated with India's 'Cockroach Janta Party' (CJP), clashed with police in Delhi on Monday, July 20, 2026, during anti-government marches. The demonstrators attempted to march towards Parliament, prompting police to deploy baton charges and tear gas to disperse the crowds after barricades were breached. The protests, which saw over 60 protesters and more than 100 police personnel injured, were met with an internet shutdown in central Delhi and a police investigation into potential conspiracy behind the violence.

The CJP, a satirical political movement founded in May 2026 by Abhijeet Dipke, emerged after the Chief Justice of India reportedly referred to unemployed youth as "cockroaches" and "parasites." Embracing the insult, the movement rapidly gained millions of online followers before organizing offline demonstrations.

The primary grievances driving the protests include alleged irregularities and leaks in high-stakes medical entrance examinations (NEET), broader frustrations with the education system, and youth unemployment. Protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and comprehensive education reforms, with activist Sonam Wangchuk also joining the movement with a hunger strike.