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India's 'Cockroach' protests press on despite police crackdown
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Thousands of young protesters in New Delhi continue to defy restrictions in the "Cockroach" movement, initially sparked by alleged leaks in competitive medical and government job exams, now expanding to broader frustrations with the government.
- Clashes with police have occurred multiple times this week, with authorities using tear gas and batons to disperse crowds and suspending metro services to limit access to protest sites.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded by announcing fast-track courts to handle exam leak cases, but protesters remain unsatisfied, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and systemic reforms.
- The movement, which began as an online satire campaign, has grown into a significant youth-led protest reflecting widespread discontent over government accountability, unemployment, and economic opportunities in India.
- Opposition parties support the protests, which have spread beyond New Delhi to other cities, highlighting the growing political influence of India’s young population ahead of future elections.
