Left leaders on Friday hailed Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as a “historic victory” for the student-youth movement, while asserting that the struggle would continue until all the protesters’ demands were met.

CPI(M) general secretary M.A. Baby congratulated students and youth across the country on what he described as a “major victory”, saying Mr. Pradhan’s resignation was “only the first step”.

“The NTA has to be disbanded, and the anti-student, commercial and communal NEP 2020 has to be rolled back as well,” Mr. Baby said in a post on X.

Mr. Baby congratulated CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and various student organisations, including the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), for remaining steadfast despite threats. He also welcomed the support extended to the movement by celebrities from sports, arts, cinema and culture, saying the experience had shown that united struggles could succeed.

Communist Party of India (CPI) general secretary D. Raja said Mr. Pradhan’s resignation was achieved through sustained struggle and the students’ movement has “defeated the arrogance of the BJP and compelled the Modi-Shah regime to answer for its failures.” Mr. Raja also reiterated the demand for withdrawal of all FIRs lodged against protesters, an unconditional apology from the government for the police action, and compensation for families who lost children due to alleged irregularities in the competitive examinations.

- PTI

The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) on Saturday said Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation was “just the beginning” and claimed that more such resignations would follow, while the Congress termed it a “victory for crores of students across the country”.

The BJP, however, demanded that the Congress seek the resignation of Chief Minister Hemant Soren over alleged irregularities in the JPSC examinations, following Mr. Pradhan’s resignation.

“Pradhan’s resignation is just a beginning. A series of resignations would follow soon as the entire government is involved in malpractices. Every department is knee-deep in corruption and irregularities. Let us see how fast the ministers exit the Union Cabinet,” JMM general secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya told reporters.

Jharkhand Congress media in-charge Rakesh Sinha said Mr. Pradhan’s resignation was the outcome of a prolonged struggle by students, youths and their families against alleged examination irregularities.

- PTI

NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar on Saturday said he had requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold talks with the CJP leaders and not use force against the young protesters, and Mr. Modi might have taken note of his advice.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over the NEET paper leak issue was a major victory for the youth power and Indian democracy, the veteran leader told reporters in Pune.

Mr. Pawar had met Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke at Jantar Mantar in Delhi during the CJP’s agitation for Mr. Pradhan’s resignation, and later also met Prime Minister Modi.

Relief and joy replaced months of anxiety for the parents of CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke on Saturday after the extraordinary campaign led by him culminated in Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.

“I will ask him to come home early. If he does not come, we will go and bring him back. I will hug him tightly and perform an aarti for him. The last time he was here, he did not allow me to do that, saying he was not some prominent person,” said Mr. Abhijeet’s mother Anita Dipke, fighting back her tears.

“I am extremely happy. His honesty has won. The support of the youth helped him and he achieved a big victory,” she said, speaking to reporters at her home in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city.

Abhijeet Dipke's parents express relief and joy as their son returns home after a successful campaign against a government minister.

Kiren Rijiju penned a farewell note to Dharmendra Pradhan as he stepped down from his post as Education Minister following continuous protests over the NEET paper leaks.

“True leadership is measured over decades, and Dharmendra Pradhan ji’s journey stands as a testament to lifelong engagement with public life & student welfare,” Mr. Rijiju says.

“Having worked alongside him in the Union Cabinet, I have seen his sincere dedication to strengthening India’s education ecosystem & keeping our millions of young students at the center of every decision. Leading such a critical sector demands immense perseverance & he embraced it with courage & clear vision. Dharmendra ji, thank you for your relentless service, your commitment to reforms & your contribution to building a stronger India. I wish you the very best as you continue to serve the nation with the same conviction & sincerity!” he says.

CJP spokespersons Saurabh Das and Ashutosh Ranka have left the Jantar Mantar protest site. Abhijeet Dipke had left the site earlier.

- Nikhil M. Babu

After CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka told protestors that the protest is called off and they should disperse for now, people have slowly started leaving the Jantar Mantar protest site, but hundreds of protesters are still there.

- Nikhil M. Babu

The exit gates of all metro stations near the Jantar Mantar protest site, including New Delhi, Central Secretariat and Mandi House, are closed. The exit gates at Dilli Haat INA, Chawri Bazar and JLN Stadium are not closed, a metro official confirmed. CISF personnel are deployed near the exit gates.

- Suruchi Kumari

Following the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the Centre accepting the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) demands, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke says that he will take a nap.

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The Janpath metro station gate, which is the closest metro station to the entry of the protest site, has also been opened.

The metro station also made an announcement that says that “only entry is allowed in Janpath Metro Station. Exit is restricted.”

WhatsApp Image 2026-07-25 at 18.16.20.jpeg

- Suruchi Kumari

After the CJP called off the protest following their demands being accepted, spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka brief the protestors on their talks with the Centre.

“We request you to disperse peacefully. We will meet again soon,” says Mr. Das

- Nikhil M. Babu

According to the police officials, three officers, including a Special Commissioner of Police, have faced injuries in a fresh stone-pelting incident after the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, following which the police used lathi charges and tear gas to disperse the crowd.

The violence erupted when a section of the gathering allegedly turned aggressive as senior police officers were overseeing crowd management at the protest site, the sources said.

According to a police source, the Special Commissioner of Police, Anil Shukla of the Special Cell, along with other senior and field officers, was at the forefront of efforts to regulate the crowd and prevent any breach of security arrangements.

AICC general secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Saturday hailed the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, describing it as a victory for India’s youth and democracy after sustained student protests across the country.

“I am very, very happy for many reasons. The main reason is that today, July 25, 2026, is the day the people of this country have started claiming their country back from those who tried to destroy the Constitution and suppress the voices of the people,” Ms. Vadra told reporters during her visit to Wayanad.

Calling the development “a victory for the youth of India,” she praised students for conducting their agitation peacefully despite facing police action.

Ms. Vadra said the protests had demonstrated that “the will of the people is paramount” in a democracy.

- The Hindu Bureau

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) celebrates the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Education Minister at Jantar Mantar, and hails B.R. Ambedkar and the framers of the Constitution.

“Today’s victory is a powerful testament to the extraordinary foresight of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the framers of our Constitution. Decades ago, Babasaheb envisioned a nation where power flowed directly from the people, and he engineered the framework to make that possible. Jai Samvidhan! Jai Bhim!” CJP says in a post on X.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that students are the future of India while Narendra Modi is the past, and the past can never fight the future.

Speaking to the media after meeting a group of protesting students at his residence, including a young girl who had injured her leg, Mr. Gandhi said their demand for the ouster of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is non-negotiable, and nothing short of it will be acceptable.

Claiming that he had heard that a section of the Union Cabinet is suggesting moving Mr. Pradhan to another ministry, Mr. Gandhi said any such move will be of no help.

Rahul Gandhi asserts students represent India's future, demanding the ousting of corrupt Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan amid ongoing protests.

Closing the press conference, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das says that “the CJP declares that we withdraw the strike”.

“They had a five-point charter. We discussed this in detail,” says Union Minister J.P. Nadda

“Fourth round of talks on education and examination reforms will be held in 4 weeks,” says Mr. Nadda

In a joint press conference with CJP spokespersons Saurav Das, Ashutosh Ranka, and Union Minister J.P. Nadda and MoS Jitendra Singh, Mr. Das says that “All FIRs filed against protesters all over the country will be withdrawn; the government has assured us.”

“CJP has sought assurance from the govt that no case will be registered against protesters or organisers in future as well. The govt said it will get back on this on Tuesday in writing,” Mr. Das says.

“Government has agreed to give an honorary compensation to the kin of students who ended their lives,” Mr. Ranka says.

Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as Union Education Minister marks an unusual interlude in a political career that had enjoyed a steady rise. A controversy of such magnitude engulfed him that it became a contest between his staying in office and addressing the anxieties of an entire generation, with GenZ protests ultimately emerging victorious.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns amid protests over exam paper leaks, marking a significant turn in his political career.

Shops and stalls around Jantar Mantar, usually bustling with shoppers, have worn a deserted look through the week as the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest disrupted business, leaving traders with poor sales, empty parking lots and mounting concerns over their livelihoods.

The impact of the week-long protest has extended beyond traffic diversions and Metro station closures, with traders in the Jantar Mantar flea market and Connaught Place saying they have witnessed one of the weakest business weeks in recent months.

Many shopkeepers said they either kept their shops shut on several days or saw barely any customers walking in. On Saturday afternoon, when the market would normally be crowded, only a handful of stalls remained open while most shutters were down.

- PTI

Stone-pelting broke out at Jantar Mantar shortly after the announcement of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation on Saturday, prompting security forces to lob tear gas and resort to a mild lathicharge to disperse the crowd, sources said.

The clashes erupted after a section of protesters allegedly turned violent and hurled stones at security personnel.

The source said that two police personnel sustained injuries on their head and they were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital.

The situation is now under control and adequate force remains deployed in the area, the source said.

- PTI

Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Saturday described Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as “a victory of democracy”, and credited the nationwide student-led agitation and citizens’ participation for the outcome.

In a post on X, Mr. Wangchuk described the development as “a victory of democracy, direct democracy... straight from the streets.” Calling it “a victory of peace, patience and perseverance”, the environmentalist congratulated the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), Gen Z and citizens across the country for participating in the nationwide agitation over the alleged NEET paper leak.

“Congratulations CJP, Gen Z of the nation, and thank you all citizens for shedding fear and the fear of fear and rising from every corner of the nation,” he said.

Sonam Wangchuk hails Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as a triumph for democracy, crediting citizen activism and student-led protests.

The crowd cheered and chanted slogans at the protest site in Jantar Mantar on Saturday after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s tendered his resignation.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke joined the crowd from the dais and waved the tricolour and sang Vande Mataram by A.R. Rahman.

Addressing the protesters, Mr. Dipke said, “Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned, and this is the proof that if you don’t get scared, you can win.” “You should not be scared to speak in a democracy. Only if you raise your voice, they will stay in line because they are sitting in power because of us.”

Abhijeet Dipke celebrates Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, urging continued protest for justice and compensation for affected families.

Protesters celebrate and chant slogans for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at Freedom Park in Bengaluru.

Agitations are likely to continue until larger educational reforms and the violence by Delhi Police are addressed.

“Victory of truth, rights, struggle, and justice! Defeat of the oppressive government’s lies, tricks, and arrogance! Infinite congratulations to the student and youth power!” says Tejashwi Yadav after Dharmendra Pradhan tendered his resignation to the Prime Minister earlier today.

“Many questions remain unanswered. The country’s aware youth will continue to ensure accountability,” he added.

Responding to Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation after continued student protests in Jantar Mantar, Rahul Gandhi says that the Education Minister’s resignation is a huge step towards reshaping our education system. “Well done to students across the country; we are proud of all of you. Heartiest congratulations to every young person, every student who took to the streets and stood firm to protect democracy, the Constitution, and their future,” Mr Gandhi says.

Rahul Gandhi says that two demands remain. “The Prime Minister should apologise while respecting the students and India’s future, and action should be taken against those guilty of violence against students. For other sections of society—farmers, labourers, the poor, every person whom this government has suppressed and crushed—true courage lies in standing firm in a constitutional manner for one’s dignity. The time has come to remove this government. Don’t be afraid!” he added.

“Haar gaye, haar gaye, Tanashah haar gaye [dictator has been defeated]”, the crowd gathered at the Jantar Mantar protest site chanted, as news of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation reached the venue on Saturday (July 25, 2026).

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke, joined the crowd from the dais. Waving the tricolour, he sang A.R. Rahman’s rendition of Vande Mataram, as, elsewhere, the crowd danced to Chak De India.

Read the full story below:

Protesters celebrate at Jantar Mantar as Dharmendra Pradhan resigns, marking a victory for the Cockroach Janta Party.

As CJP members are set to meet the Government for the next round of talks, some protesters in Jantar Mantar think the protest should continue to press for more education reforms.

However, Kuldeepak Yadav (29) from Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, says it will be difficult to continue the protest after the government has agreed to the three core demands. Yadav, who has been associated with the protest since the first day, says, “if we continue the protest, a lot of people who are originally associated with the movement may distance themselves.” 

- Nikhil M. Babu

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said that Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation is “just the beginning”.

“This is the first wicket. We won’t stop here. This is just the beginning. I salute all students, all the volunteers who have been sitting here for the last 36 days,” he said.

- Vijaita Singh

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has annouced that entry gates for Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat metro stations are now open.

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday (July 25, 2026) said the Congress will protest till the issues concerning students are addressed.

He said protests are an integral part of democracy.

Speaking to reporters in Karnataka, Mr. Shivakumar said the Congress will not stop its agitation till the concerns of the students are addressed.

- PTI

Long queues are seen outside the entrance as thousands of people continue to head to Jantar Mantar. Inside the protest site, chants continue. “Jang abhi bhi jaari hai, E20 ki baari hai, (Fight will continue, E20 is the next target)”, chant a section of protesters. 

Repeated appeals to maintain peace are made from the dais. 

- Nikhil M. Babu

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, on Saturday (July 25, 2026) said Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation reflects the BJP’s philosophy of “nation first, party next, self last”.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, democracy means listening to the people, respecting their voice and having the courage to take responsibility when the moment demands it, the Minister said.

“As Dharmendra Pradhan ji steps down as Union Education Minister, his decision reflects the values our organisation stands for: responsibility before position and nation before self,” Sanjay Kumar said in a post on X.

Further, he said Mr. Pradhan has spent decades in public life, from the students’ movement to serving people by handling key responsibilities in the Union Government.

- PTI

Minor clashes were reported between protesters and security personnel outside the Jantar Mantar protest venue towards Sansad Marg around 2 p.m. 

Eye witnesses told The Hindu that the police resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse the protesters. 

- Nikhil M. Babu

The Delhi Police advised the citizens to avoid traveling towards New Delhi area.

“Citizens are advised to avoid travelling towards the New Delhi area due to heavy crowds and high traffic congestion observed across the district. Commuters should use alternative routes to prevent delays and ensure a hassle-free journey,” the Police said.

Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk said Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation announcement was a victory of peace, patience & perseverance.

“Congratulations CJP, Gen Z of the nation and thank you all citizens for shedding fear and the fear of fear and rising up from every corner of the nation. From accountability, now to reforms,” he said.

Former Union Minister Sharad Pawar on Saturday (July 25, 2026) described Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation from his post over the NEET paper leak row as a “major victory of the youth power” in the country.

“The struggle and determination shown by the youth over 28 consecutive days at Jantar Mantar in Delhi in the NEET paper leak case is truly commendable,” Mr. Pawar said in a statement.

“In response to the insistent demand of the protesters, the Union Education Minister has finally resigned today. This fight, which was firmly against oppression without fear and forced the government to accept moral responsibility against injustice, is a symbol of the power of democracy. This is a major victory for the unity of the youth power in the country,” he said.

- PTI

Congress general secretary (organisation) K.C. Venugopal said celebrates Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation as a victory for India’s youth.

“Your power forced the incompetent, corrupt, and guilty Dharmendra Pradhan to resign! This is a victory of the people, a win for all those who fought for accountability in our system,” said Mr. Venugopal.

“Since the moment the NEET paper leaked, the Congress and especially Rahul Gandhi has been demanding his resignation. In a united fashion, the Opposition was spearheading this protest with a common demand for accountability,” he said.

“Our other demands are: the punishment of those who attacked our students and an apology from the PM for the atrocities faced by the students,” he added. 

The Aam Aadmi Party on Saturday warned the central government against “suppressing” the voices of students and young protesters, saying “if you stop the movement, it will grow across the country”.

Senior AAP leader Gopal Rai demanded that police immediately release all student leaders arrested in Patna and Gujarat protesting the NEET exams. There was no immediate response from BJP on the matter.

“The central government is trying to suppress the movement by using police and arresting the youth leaders protesting. While on one hand, the BJP government says they want to resolve this by talking, in reality protestors are being arrested in Gujarat,” Mr. Rai said, addressing a press conference.

“If you do this and stop the movement, it will grow across the country. These actions show that the BJP government are trying to stop this movement by suppressing their voices,” he said.

- PTI

Cockroach Janta Party timeline: From a viral joke to a national movement

Protestors gathered in Jantar Mantar celebrate with the Chak De India song, reports Nikhil M. Babu. Crowd continues to swell in Jantar Mantar even after Dharmendra Pradhan stepped down as Union Education Minister.

The Cockroach Janta Party posted a video of Abhijeet Dipke celebrating after Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.

A status check of the Cockroach Janta Party’s demands reveals that Dharmedra Pradhan has resigned, but that compensation and an apology are still pending amid the ongoing protests.

As Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan posts a letter, saying he has sent his resignation to PM Modi, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke says, “Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned. This is the proof that if you don’t get scared, if you don’t bow down in front of this government, you can take anyone’s resignation. Don’t be scared in democracy.”

- PTI

In the letter, Mr. Pradhan stated that in order to avoid “anti-national forces” from exploiting the situation at Jantar Mantar and across the nation, and “so that the unity of the country remains intact, so that the future of no student in India gets tangled in legal complexities, and so that our children spend their time studying and focusing on building their careers”, he has decided to quit from his position.

“The events of the past 10 days have saddened me. This is not a matter of personal prestige for me... It is my resolve that we will not allow the country’s youth power to become trapped in a web of confusion. The situation that has emerged at Jantar Mantar and elsewhere in the country should not be exploited by anti-national forces... Keeping these considerations in mind, I have sent my resignation to the Hon’ble Prime Minister,” he said.

- ANI

In his resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Pradhan highlighted his long-standing association with education and reaffirmed his commitment to the aspirations of India’s youth.

“For more than four decades, I have been associated with students, teachers, and the cause of education reform. I have always believed that a strong, inclusive, and forward-looking education system is the foundation of a strong nation,” Mr. Pradhan said.

Recalling the NEET-UG controversy, stated that the Centre acted promptly after irregularities surfaced in the May 3 examination.

“However, irregularities were found in the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026. The Government of India immediately took cognisance of the matter, handed over the investigation to the CBI, cancelled the examination, and announced a date for the re-examination. Along with this, it was decided that from next year onwards, the examination would be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode,” he added.

- ANI

In his resignation letter, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that he took responsibility for the NEET paper leak since day one.

“From day one, I took responsibility for this and never turned my back on the situation. My resolve was that we will not let the future of any meritorious student be ruined by exam mafias, nor will we allow injustice to happen to any student,” Mr. Pradhan said.

“I have always maintained unwavering faith in the strength of our democracy and have deeply respected the aspirations, dreams, and expectations of the youth. They are not merely the future of India but also the bearers, creators, and architects of a new and developed India. Looking at the sequence of events over the past 10 days, my heart is deeply pained. This is not a matter of personal prestige for me,” he added.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ‌said ‌on ‌Saturday (July 25, 2026) ⁠he ⁠had resigned from ‌his post after youth protests calling ⁠for ‌him to ‌quit.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigns as Union Education Minister, announcing his decision on X on July 25, 2026.

BJP Kerala president Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Saturday (July 25, 2026) said examination paper leaks were not just a case of corruption but a reflection of a deeper “culture of shortcuts”.

He also took exception to the tone and language used during protests over the NEET paper leak.

In a post on X, Mr. Chandrasekhar said, “Exam leaks are a crime. What factors or who are the people who encourage and foster this? This is the real question we should be asking and seeking answers for.” 

“I am glad that the issue of examination leaks is being debated openly. We must continue this debate (in an informed and civil manner) till the ecosystem that enables this and the culture that encourages and feeds exam leaks are addressed comprehensively,” he added.

- PTI

Actor Jyotika shared a note on her social media on Saturday (July 25, 2026) as she extended support to the protesting students and demanded the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Ms. Jyotika shared a post on her Instagram handle and said she stands for accountability. “Step down Dharmendra Pradhan. Resign. I stand with the students... I stand with accountability. I stand for a democratic India! I stand for reformed education. Sonam Wangchuk. Abhijeet Dipke and Saurav Das, as mothers, we want to raise our children to be like you. Proud of you Gen Z’s,” she wrote.

- PTI

Saroj Giri speaks to us about the student protests over exam paper leaks and whether they represent a new political challenge for the government

In this episode, Saroj Giri speaks to us about the student protests over exam paper leaks and whether they represent a new political challenge for the government.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday (July 24, 2026) stressed that the biggest challenge before families today is connecting with the younger generation through dialogue rather than authority, asserting that “today’s youth need discussion, not dictation.”

Mr. Bhagwat was speaking at an event organised under the banner of Vishwa Mangalya Sabha, an organisation “focused on empowered motherhood, cultural harmony and universal wellbeing”, as per its website.

Mohan Bhagwat emphasizes the importance of dialogue-based parenting to connect with today's youth, urging families to foster meaningful conversations.

The Cockoach Janta Party (CJP) has called for a nationwide candle march on Sunday evening (July 26, 2026), in solidarity with victims of police brutality during July 20 march to Parliament.

“Student unions and other organisations should collaborate and work together for permission and logistics,” the post read.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk released a video on YouTube late Friday night (July 24, 2026), recounting his experience over the past few days and sharing a clip of what transpired as he was leaving the Safdarjung Hospital after the Delhi High Court allowed him to be shifted to the Medanta Hospital in Gurugram.

However, the Safdarjung Hospital has said that the video was recorded before its administration received the written order of the Delhi High Court.

In the video, Mr. Wangchuk could be seen getting into a confrontation with a security person at the Safdarjung Hospital, alleging that he was being prevented from leaving the premises. He can be heard saying that the authorities should either arrest him or allow him to leave.

“It is pertinent to note that Mr Wangchuk was handed over to the team of doctors from Medanta Gurugram on the same day at 6:40 pm, immediately after the written order was received by the hospital,” the hospital said.

PTI

A Ghaziabad resident volunteering at the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)-led protest against alleged paper leaks at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has alleged that police detained his family members in Ghaziabad and harassed his relatives in Meerut because of his role in the agitation.

Mohammad Junaid, a volunteer providing free food and drinking water to protesters, told mediapersons at Jantar Mantar on Friday that UP Police took away his family members and seized their bank passbooks and PAN cards during a raid at his house.

According to his family, police from Ghaziabad’s Masoori police station reached their residence in Nahal village on Thursday evening (July 23, 2026) and searched the premises. They alleged that Mr. Junaid’s father, Mustafa, was taken away by the police and that bank passbooks and PAN cards belonging to family members were also taken.

His sister told the media that police asked her father to call Mr. Junaid and ask him to return home. Mr. Junaid also alleged that the police also harassed his relatives in the neighbouring Meerut district.

However, Meerut Police denied carrying out any action against Mr. Junaid’s family.

PTI

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Saturday (July 25, 2026) condemned the Delhi Police, on what they termed as, “increasingly authoritarian actions in and around Jantar Mantar”.

They demanded that the Police “immediately cease and desist from unlawfully detaining, intimidating or preventing citizens from reaching Jantar Mantar and refrain from creating an atmosphere of fear”.

The statement comes amid security being stepped up in areas of Delhi in view of the CJP-led protest seeing increased turnout over the weekend.

Stating the third demand, Rahul Gandhi said the “leader of the entire machinery” Prime Minister Narendra Modi has to apologise to the students for the lack of accountability and for the police “brutality” on them.

“The one who is making videos during the nights. He said very good suggestions came in, but has nothing to do with it. The students have nothing to do with the suggestions, they want Dharmendra Pradhan’s removal. So the main in-charge person, Mr. Modi, has to apologise for attacking and disrespecting them,” he told reporters.

The second demand, Mr. Gandhi said, the “implementors and organisers” of the brutality on students via lathi charge and batons during the July 20 march to Parliament must be held accountable.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, talking to reporters in New Delhi, stated that moving Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to another Ministry is not acceptable to the protesting students.

Talking to reporters alongside three student protesters, Mr. Gandhi reiterated their three demands amid the ongoing agitation over the NEET paper ‘leak’ issue. One of the three with him was Neha, the national president of the All India Students’ Association (AISA), the students wing of the ​CPI(ML) Liberation​, who broke her fast on July 20.

“The Education Minister who is corrupt, imcompetent and misaligned has to be sacked. There is some talk going on, we get information from the government, in PM Modi’s Cabinet that the solution is to remove Mr. Pradhan from Education and move him to another Ministry. It is not acceptable to anybody... He has to be sacked. Period,” he said.

CPI(M) leader P.A. Mohamed Riyas on Saturday (July 25, 2026) criticised Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, accusing him of spreading “political lies” and failing to take a strong stand in support of the protest by the CJP and students in New Delhi.

Speaking to reporters, Mr. Riyas said that when Mr. Satheesan took part in the agitation outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence in Delhi, he did not utter a word in support of the protest by the CJP and students against alleged irregularities in various examinations, including NEET.

The CPI(M) leader also alleged that Mr. Satheesan did not respond to the “brutal attacks” on protesting students by police in Delhi.

He accused the Kerala CM of displaying “double standards” on the issue, alleging that Kerala police were registering cases against those holding protests or programmes in support of the CJP-led agitation in Delhi.

- PTI

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka has alleged that the Delhi Police are stopping protesters from reaching the Jantar Mantar protest site.

Sharing screenshots of anonymous messages, he said: “Do whatever you want to. You cannot stop people from coming to Jantar Mantar. You cannot stop people from having food. You cannot stop people from helping us.”

The messages also mentioned that the Delhi Police are visiting restaurants and threatening them for sending large orders to the protest site.

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The Police “are everywhere” and they decide who may or may not meet activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is still recovering at Gurugram’s Medanta Hospital after breaking his indefinite fast, his wife Gitanjali Angmo alleged on Saturday (july 25, 2026).

“If the Court has clarified that he is not under detention, then under what authority is this happening?” she questioned in a post on X.

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“If Modi ji is making reels at night, it shows there is turbulence in the system. Make reels after you take ‘strict actions’ as you said and make Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. Even we will share them,” CJP’s Ashutosh Ranka said, adding that the government has now begun to speak to the students.

Security arrangements have been intensified further across the national capital ahead of the weekend, with Delhi Police installing additional layers of barricades at key locations and reinforcing them with heavy-duty chains to prevent attempts to breach security cordons, officials said on Saturday (July 25, 2026).

“Extra layers of barricading have been put in place at the vulnerable points, which have been chained together and welded so that they cannot be dismantled or shifted easily. Additional force will also be deployed to maintain law and order,” a police officer said.

Apart from physical barricading, surveillance and security measures have also been enhanced across the city.

PTI

On Congress MP Imran Masood’s “Anna part two” and “personal deal with the government” remarks for Sonam Wangchuk, CJP Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said: “We don’t know what Congress is thinking. But they have done a lot, they have also done negotiations that there should not be a legal case and they should get a compensation. It is not right to question Sonam ji.”

ANI

Kolkata Police has registered six cases, including five on attack on media persons, in connection with the violence at Esplanade on Friday (July 24, 2026). 

Thousands of people had participated in a march from Sealdah to Esplanade in Kolkata in support of students protesting in Delhi.

Eighteen Delhi Metro stations in central Delhi remained closed for the fourth straight day on Saturday (July 25, 2026) due to security concerns amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest near the Jantar Mantar, officials said.

According to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the stations remain closed from 7.30 am until further instructions. However, interchange facilities will be available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat stations.

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Eighteen Delhi Metro stations remain closed for the fourth day due to security concerns amid a CJP-led protest in central Delhi.

The number of FIRs by the Delhi Police against the protesters of the July 20 march to Parliament has increased to 13, authorities said on Saturday morning (July 25, 2026).

THB

“Have been diagnosed with typhoid, but the fight will go on until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns!” Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke said in a video message on Saturday morning (July 25, 2026).

A 28-year-old journalist with Outlook, among those injured in the July 20 protest, said knew something was off when he saw an officer deployed on law and order duty at the Statesman House near Jantar Mantar fire his weapon. “There was a lot of crowd, and I saw an officer lift a gun. People started running around and dispersing. I was conscious, but there was a lot of pain,” said the journalist who did not wish to be identified.

Later that day, he got a tetanus shot but realised the severity of the injuries only the next day.

A 28-year-old journalist with Outlook, among those injured in the July 20 protest, said knew something was off when he saw an officer deployed on law and order duty at the Statesman House near Jantar Mantar fire his weapon. “There was a lot of crowd, and I saw an officer lift a gun. People started running around and dispersing. I was conscious, but there was a lot of pain,” said the journalist who did not wish to be identified.

A day after Delhi University (DU) issued a similar advisory, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Jamia Millia Islamia issued advisories asking students to “refrain from participating” in gatherings in and around Jantar Mantar, adding that violations may invite legal consequences as well as disciplinary action.

JNU and Jamia advise students against protests at Jantar Mantar, facing backlash for stifling democratic expression and dissent.

CJP in a post on X, alleged that its volunteer Mohd Junaid was harassed by Uttar Pradesh police. It said, “Instead of going after criminals, UP Police is wasting its time going after our volunteer Mohd Junaid who has been serving food and water to people. Now they’re harassing him and his family in UP. Our team is in touch with him and we will never let them victimise him or his family. It is no longer shocking how this govt responds to dissent, but we will not be intimidated by these cowards. Every illegal action of the Police will be challenged in courts.“

CPIML Liberation said in a statemnet on Friday (July 24), “CPI(ML) CCM Kumar Parvez and AISA leader Divyam have also been arrested by the Bihar Police ahead of the July 25 Bihar Bandh in solidarity with the student-youth movement. Earlier, CPI(ML) MLA Sandeep Saurabh, Dhananjay, former JNUSU President, and AISA leaders Dipankar and Saba were arrested.” 

All India Students’ Association (AISA) called for a Bihar Bandh on July 25, 2026, against police lathi-charge on the students in Patna on July 22.

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Cockroach Janta Party’s National Spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka says, “They had given us the time for 3.30-4 p.m. today. The location has not been finalised yet. Discussions are very clear. We should get written confirmation for the two demands on which there has been in-principle agreement. So that they can be closed. We need clarity over Dharmendra Pradhan - whether they will seek his resignation or not. We want an answer in Yes or No because there is not much scope for deliberation over this.”

Protest marches and dharnas were witnessed in several districts of Bihar on Friday (July 24, 2026) by the students and locals demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged NEET paper leak.

AISA announces Bihar Bandh on July 25 in response to police violence against students protesting the NEET paper leak.

As the crowd continues to swell at Jantar Mantar, the Delhi Police have deployed powerful cameras and at least three mobile surveillance vans around the venue. The devices continuously capture live images and run them past a police database to identify and isolate people with criminal records.

Delhi Police deploys advanced surveillance at Jantar Mantar protest, raising concerns over privacy and ethical use of facial recognition technology.

Disability rights organisations, doctors’ groups, individuals, and concerned citizens have condemned the apparent use of pellet guns and electric shock weapons against protesters during the ‘ Chalo Sansad’ march in the national capital on July 20. The incident allegedly occurred in the youth-led protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over examination paper leaks.

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A video clip recorded on July 21, at Safdarjung Hospital shows, the Hospital administration and police attempting to stop Sonam Wangchuk as he tried to leave for Medanta Hospital, even though Delhi High Court allowed him to be shifted to Medanta, Gurugram. - Vijaita Singh

CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka says, “...Yesterday’s meeting yielded a positive response regarding compensation and legal matters. An in-principle agreement was reached. We hope to receive that return agreement today as well. But no concrete decision has ever been made regarding the main demand, Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. In fact, what we saw yesterday on mainstream media was that sources were saying that Pradhan will not resign. If Pradhan does not resign, then let us know; then there is no point in this kind of meeting. We will work on our future strategy... If the government continues this way, then we will be forced to opt for the tough stance.”- ANI

Criticising new traffic advisory issued by Delhi Traffic police on Friday (July 24), CJP’s Sourav Das said, “The government wants to LAY SIEGE to Jantar Mantar! It wants to restrict and stop food delivery, water delivery, sanitation facilities, medical treatment, power lines, and people’s movement to the site!”

Thousands of people continued to turn up at the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar on Friday (July 24), even as the restrictions around the authorities closed the entry and exit gates at 18 metro stations, two more than were closed the previous day. Internet services remained suspended at Jantar Mantar, Sansad Marg and parts of central Delhi for the third consecutive day.

The protest’s momentum appeared undimmed despite the restrictions.

After being criticised by several social media users for ending his hunger strike in the presence of Union Ministers, activist Sonam Wangchuk released a long video message on Friday (July 24, 2026) where he asserted that he “did not cut any deal” with the government and ended the fast as he feared a crackdown against students and protestors at Jantar Mantar.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday said setting up fast-track courts for trial in paper leak cases would be a significant step towards ensuring justice to every hard-working student.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that the government has decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks.

In her first comment over the issue, Ms. Gupta said on X that protecting students’ interests and ensuring a bright future for the youth are the highest priorities of the government

- PTI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday thanked everyone for the responses and positive suggestions received to his video, where he announced the government’s decision to bring a strict law to punish those involved in paper leaks.

In the video message, PM Modi said that a new bill incorporating provisions for strong action against paper leaks will be introduced in the ongoing session of Parliament next week.

The draft bill, as announced by the prime minister in the Instagram video shared by him in the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, was approved by the Union Cabinet on Friday.

- PTI

Published - July 25, 2026 07:02 am IST

Live news / Cockroach Janta Party / Delhi / India / demonstration / students