A fresh controversy has emerged at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where protests against alleged irregularities and paper leaks in competitive examinations are underway. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which is leading the agitation with the support of educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, has alleged that Delhi Police objected to a tarpaulin installed to shield Wangchuk from the scorching sun during his ongoing hunger strike.
According to CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, police personnel asked protesters to remove the tarpaulin, reportedly saying, “Remove the tarpaulin and show us where the sunlight is falling.” The party described the incident as “inhumane,” arguing that even a temporary arrangement to protect a fasting protester from extreme heat was not permitted.
As of the time of publication, Delhi Police had not issued any official response to the allegations.
*Health Concerns Deepen on the 16th Day of Fast
Sonam Wangchuk’s indefinite hunger strike has now entered its 16th day. According to the medical bulletin released by the protest organizers, his blood pressure was recorded at 104/66 mmHg, while he has lost approximately 7.8 kilograms since the fast began. A team of doctors continues to monitor his condition, with reports indicating increasing physical weakness due to prolonged fasting.
Earlier, Wangchuk had appealed to his supporters not to turn him into a “hero” but instead to actively participate in strengthening democratic values and reforming India’s education system.
*Background of the Protest
The Cockroach Janta Party has been staging protests at Jantar Mantar for several weeks, alleging widespread paper leaks, examination irregularities, and administrative failures in competitive examinations. The organization claims these issues have jeopardized the future of millions of students.
The protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, comprehensive reforms in the examination system, an impartial investigation into paper leak cases, and complete transparency in recruitment and entrance examinations.
Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 in support of the movement. He has maintained that the campaign is not limited to any single examination but concerns the credibility of India’s education system and the future of the country’s youth.
*Growing Political Support
The protest has drawn support from several political leaders and civil society groups. In recent days, Samajwadi Party MP Pushpendra Saroj and former Kerala Health Minister K.K. Shailaja visited Jantar Mantar to meet Wangchuk and other protesters. Both leaders described students’ concerns as serious and emphasized the need for a transparent and accountable examination system.
*Parliament March Planned for July 20
CJP has announced a peaceful march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament on July 20, during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. The organization has appealed to students, parents, teachers, and civil society groups from across the country to participate.
With Wangchuk’s deteriorating health, the controversy over the tarpaulin, and the announcement of the Parliament march, the agitation has once again moved to the center of national attention. It remains to be seen how the Central Government and the Delhi administration respond to the protesters’ demands and allegations.
