Delhi Protest Over NEET Row Triggers Security Clampdown
New Delhi, July 20, 2026
Public anger over the alleged NEET examination irregularities took centre stage in the national capital on Monday as the Monsoon Session of Parliament began. Thousands of supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) gathered in Delhi for the proposed "Chalo Sansad" march, turning the issue into a major political flashpoint despite authorities refusing permission for the demonstration.
Supporters assembled at Jantar Mantar with plans to march towards Parliament, demanding accountability over the alleged examination lapses and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Police intervened to stop the march and used batons to disperse the crowd after prohibitory orders banning unauthorised gatherings remained in force. At the same time, the CJP urged its supporters to avoid confrontation, saying, "Even if you've been stopped at certain points, remain calm and maintain peace. We will only win this with peace and love." Delhi Police also reiterated its restrictions, stating, "Protest marches, processions, demonstrations and assemblies of five or more persons are strictly prohibited, except at the designated protest site at Jantar Mantar, with prior permission." The force further appealed, "Delhi Police appeals to all citizens to respect the law, refrain from participating in any unauthorised gathering or march, and cooperate in maintaining public peace, safety and security."
The heightened security arrangements affected normal movement across the city. As a precaution, Rajiv Chowk, Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat and Seva Teerth Metro stations were temporarily shut, forcing many commuters to change their travel plans. Rajiv Chowk, one of Delhi's busiest Metro interchanges, witnessed heavy crowds outside its closed entry and exit gates as passengers searched for alternative routes.
The Cockroach Janta Party, launched in May by Abhijeet Dipke as a satirical digital outfit following the controversy surrounding Chief Justice of India Surya Kant's "parasites" and "cockroaches" remark, has been leading the campaign. In a handwritten note from the hospital, Sonam Wangchuk said his fast would end only if the government accepted responsibility for the alleged paper leaks and shortcomings in the education system, or if Members of Parliament and leaders from different political parties assured him that the issue would be raised inside Parliament. The developments have further intensified the national discussion on examination integrity and accountability.
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