New Delhi, July 21: Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijit Dipke has accused the Delhi Police of using excessive force against students during a march from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament, alleging that peaceful protesters were subjected to a lathi-charge.
Addressing the media, Dipke said the organisers decided to halt the march midway to avoid further injuries and ensure the safety of students. However, he announced that the hunger strike led by activist Sonam Wangchuk and the ongoing protest would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.
Dipke alleged that several students were injured during the police action, including female protesters. He claimed that some sustained head injuries, fractures and other serious wounds while attempting to move towards Parliament.
“Our students were determined to march peacefully to Parliament, but we had to prioritise their safety and prevent any major tragedy,” he said.
Delhi Police, however, stated that more than 100 police personnel were also injured during the protest.
Dipke also questioned the government’s response following a meeting between CJP representatives and Union Minister J.P. Nadda. Referring to the FIR registered against activist Saurabh Das, he argued that if legal action is being taken against protesters, accountability should also be fixed for those responsible for the NEET-UG controversies that have triggered widespread anger among students.
Despite the confrontation, Dipke welcomed opposition parties for raising the NEET-UG issue in Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session.
“The opposition honoured its commitment by raising the concerns of students in Parliament. Our movement, however, will continue until meaningful accountability is established,” he said.
Thousands of students and supporters had gathered at Jantar Mantar demanding reforms in India’s examination system, greater transparency and accountability following repeated examination paper leak controversies.
Meanwhile, environmentalist and activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after being removed from the protest site on Saturday, announced that he would continue his fast, now entering its 23rd day.
In a handwritten statement, Wangchuk said he would continue his hunger strike until protesting student leaders are allowed to meet Members of Parliament or he is permitted to meet parliamentarians while undergoing treatment.
“I will continue my fast. The peaceful youth deserve to present their concerns before Parliament. I appeal to the government and the police to resolve the issue through dialogue and allow the students to place their grievances before elected representatives,” Wangchuk said.
The protesters continue to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and comprehensive reforms to India’s education system, particularly in the wake of controversies surrounding competitive examinations.
Authorities had prevented the protesters from marching towards Parliament, citing security concerns, while the agitation remains ongoing.
