Crowds throng CJP protest, seek Pradhan’s resignation

Bengaluru, 

Despite heavy rain lashing Bengaluru and weekend traffic congestion, protesters stood shoulder to shoulder at Freedom Park on Sunday as the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) staged a protest. This was part of a nationwide campaign launched by the organisation, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Youngsters, activists, students, and even senior citizens gathered at the venue to voice their concerns over issues affecting the country's education system.

Among those who addressed the gathering were CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, renowned engineer, education reformer and environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, and actor activist Prakash Raj. “They called us cockroaches first, but now see what the youth are capable of. We are not here merely to gather in crowds and waste time; we are here to bring about change,” said Prathyasha, a protester who expressed her frustration over the careless manner in which several competitive examinations are conducted in the country.

Recounting her own experience, she said she had once aspired to secure a government job. However, due to multiple lapses and irregularities during the examination process, she was unable to achieve that goal and eventually took up a job in the corporate sector. According to her, her story reflects the experiences of countless hardworking Indian students whose aspirations have been affected by short comings in the system.

 “I have much more experience than the youth present here, so it is our responsibility to do what ever we can for our children and ensure they receive better educational and employment opportunities,” said Dr Ramesh Bellamkonda, a senior supporter at the protest. He added that the movement was a response to a series of failures, including the NEET paper leak controversy, and described it as a crucial moment for safeguarding democratic values: “Our democracy is dying, and this is our absolute last chance to save it”.

Arindam, part of the All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU), said the protest reflected the growing frustration among educated youth across the country. “While our immediate demand is the resignation of the minister, the larger issue is that the entire system has failed the youth. It is encouraging to see young people finally raising their voices against these injustices,” he said.

Nawaz Shaik, an artist from Bengaluru, said he joined the protest in solidarity with students and young people affected by recurring examination irregularities and paper leak scandals. “Students are suffering the consequences of these failures, and in some cases, the pressure has even driven them to take their own lives. Yet no one is being held accountable. That frustration is why I am here - to raise my voice and support this movement,” he said, urging the Central Government to take decisive action.