New Delhi: Protesters affiliated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) returned to Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Tuesday morning, a day after dramatic confrontations between demonstrators and police near Parliament left over 160 people injured.
The renewed protest began after CJP leaders called on supporters to continue their agitation despite police removing the protest stage and tents overnight. Large numbers of demonstrators gathered at the site early in the day, while Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel maintained a heavy security presence to prevent further unrest.
Fresh protest follows violent Parliament march
Monday’s “Sansad Chalo” march witnessed thousands of students taking to the streets, leading to clashes with security personnel. According to police, more than 100 police personnel and over 60 protesters sustained injuries after authorities used lathicharge and tear gas to disperse the crowd, which had advanced close to Parliament.
Delhi Police said around 70 protesters were detained and an FIR was registered against unidentified individuals for alleged violence and vandalism. Officials stated that protesters ignored repeated warnings and violated prohibitory orders.
However, protest organisers accused the police of using excessive force, claiming several students suffered injuries during what they described as a peaceful demonstration.
Government opens dialogue with protest leaders
Amid the escalating situation, Union Health Minister JP Nadda met CJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka on Monday to discuss their demands.
The delegation urged the government to release activist Sonam Wangchuk without restrictions, sought the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and demanded ₹1 crore compensation for families of NEET 2026 aspirants who allegedly died by suicide following the paper leak controversy.
Following the meeting, CJP leaders said the minister had assured them that the demands would be discussed at the appropriate level but made no commitments. They reiterated that the protest would continue until meaningful action is taken.
Sonam Wangchuk extends hunger strike
Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk announced that he would continue his hunger strike until youth representatives are permitted to meet Members of Parliament or parliamentarians visit him at the Delhi hospital where he is admitted.
In a handwritten message shared by his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, Wangchuk expressed solidarity with the protesting students, saying the reported police action had strengthened his resolve to continue the fast.