Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi has been released after being detained by police during a sit-in protest outside the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
Gandhi was taken into custody while protesting against the government’s handling of education-related issues and calling for accountability over police action against student demonstrators.
Following his release, he accused the government of ignoring students’ concerns and criticized what he described as a heavy-handed police response to the protests.
Education Reform Protests Continue
The demonstrations, organized by the social media-driven Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement, have entered their third day and have become one of the most prominent public protests since Prime Minister Modi began his third term in office in 2024.
Protesters are demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and broader reforms to India’s examination and education system.
Hundreds of demonstrators remained gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Wednesday as organizers pledged to continue their campaign.
Police and Protesters Injured
According to police, clashes during Monday’s demonstrations left 60 civilians and 118 police personnel injured.
Authorities said protesters threw stones at security forces, while police responded with tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowds.
In addition to New Delhi, demonstrations were also held in Mumbai and Bengaluru, where hundreds of people participated in solidarity protests.
Government Promises Reforms
Facing growing criticism, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said the government remains committed to improving the examination system.
In a statement posted on social media, he said:
“We owe them (students) answers, reforms and accountability.”
Pradhan added that the government is committed to delivering the reforms demanded by students.
Protest Movement Gains Momentum
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has rapidly expanded its presence on social media since its launch in May, attracting millions of followers.
The group has described the education minister as “incompetent” and vowed to continue nationwide demonstrations until its demands are addressed.
Analysts say the movement has become one of the most significant public challenges facing Prime Minister Modi’s government since his re-election.
Examination Controversies Fuel Public Anger
The protests come after a series of controversies surrounding India’s examination system.
Among the most prominent was the alleged leak of a medical entrance examination paper, which resulted in more than two million candidates being required to retake the test.
Public frustration has also grown over disputes involving the online evaluation of examinations taken by nearly two million high school students.
These incidents have intensified calls for greater transparency, accountability, and reforms within India’s education system, with student groups continuing to demand action from the government.
