On July 5, 2026, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar entered its 16th day, continuing its demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to alleged examination irregularities. The protest, which began on June 20, has drawn significant attention from both the public and political figures. Central to the demonstration is climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 27. As of July 5, Wangchuk has reportedly lost approximately six kilograms in just over a week, according to a medical bulletin issued by his attending physicians. His current vital signs include a blood pressure reading of 112/70 mm Hg in the lying-down position, a heart rate of 72 beats per minute, and a blood sugar level of 67 mg/dL. While his hydration remains adequate and his mental state is stable, the physical toll of the fast is evident in his declining weight.
The CJP has intensified its calls for accountability, citing multiple instances of examination paper leaks that have affected students preparing for crucial tests like the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). These leaks, particularly the one that forced the cancellation of the May 3 NEET exam, have reportedly caused severe distress among students and their families. One such case involves Riya Kumari Thapa, an NEET aspirant who, according to the CJP, succumbed to the pressures of the alleged paper leak. Her father, an Army veteran, joined the protest on July 5, appealing for justice and urging the government to prevent similar tragedies.
The protest has received support from various political entities and civil society groups. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), a prominent farmers' organization, plans to send a delegation to Jantar Mantar on July 7. Earlier, the SKM had expressed solidarity with the students, emphasizing the importance of a transparent and fair examination system. Additionally, members of the Left-affiliated All India Students' Association (AISA) have been conducting their own indefinite hunger strike at the protest site. Among them, Danish Ali, the joint secretary of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU), was hospitalized on July 4 after her blood sugar level dropped to 46 mg/dL on the seventh day of her fast. Other AISA members, including Neha, Manish, Hrishikesh, Deepak Kumar Verma, and Aameen, continue their strike alongside Wangchuk and other protesters.
Political leaders have also voiced their support for the protest. AAP MP Sanjay Singh criticized the BJP government for ignoring the students' plight and questioned why BJP leaders had not visited the protest site. He warned that if the government did not address the issue, the opposition would block Parliament proceedings. Similarly, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP John Brittas described the agitation as a nationwide struggle to protect the future of young people, accusing the government of being insensitive and irresponsible.
The CJP, founded by Abhijeet Dipke, has grown significantly since its inception. Initially a satirical online movement sparked by comments from the Chief Justice of India comparing some unemployed youths and activists to "cockroaches" and "parasites," the group evolved into a serious political force. The movement gained momentum after the NEET paper leak incident, leading to widespread protests. Dipke, who returned to India from the United States, quickly became a central figure in the demonstrations, addressing crowds at Jantar Mantar shortly after landing in New Delhi.
Despite the growing influence of the CJP, Dipke faced criticism for consuming food while Wangchuk was on his hunger strike. Videos of Dipke eating bread pakodas and noodles went viral on social media, prompting mockery and questions about the consistency of the protest leadership. In response, Dipke clarified that the footage was taken before Wangchuk joined the protest and emphasized that the core organizing team chose not to participate in the hunger strike to ensure the protest's continuity. He also expressed concern over Wangchuk's health, stating that he had advised the activist to end the fast but was ignored.
The CJP has also released an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to address the ongoing situation and hold Pradhan accountable for the alleged examination paper leaks. The letter highlighted the lack of government response despite 15 days of sustained protests and emphasized the moral pressure exerted by Wangchuk's hunger strike. The CJP further pointed out that Delhi Police had allegedly assaulted students and thrown books, including those on historical figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, B.R. Ambedkar, and Bhagat Singh, during an attempt to establish a library at the protest site.
As the protest continues, the focus remains on the government's response to the demands for accountability. With Wangchuk's health deteriorating and the number of participants increasing, the situation at Jantar Mantar remains tense. Political leaders and civil society members are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of this unfolding crisis, as the nation watches closely for any developments that might lead to a resolution.
9 reports
Times of IndiaIndependentProgressiveFactual 98Objective 885 days agoAbhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party, reported that Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike for six days, has lost over 5 kilograms and continues to experience declining blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Wangchuk is protesting against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, demanding his resignation due to alleged irregularities in the examination system, particularly concerning NEET. Dipke called for public support at Jantar Mantar, urging people to show solidarity with Wangchuk, who is risking his health for student causes. The protest, now in its 14th day, has received backing from various political figures, activists, and legal experts. The demonstration also aims to address broader issues like electoral roll revisions and accountability in governance.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the hunger strike as a moral and ethical stand for educational reform, emphasizing the personal sacrifice of Wangchuk and the involvement of leftist-aligned figures such as CPI(M), CPI, and AISA. The focus on holding the education minister accountable aligns with progressive-left訴
Why these scores (Factual 98 · Objective 88): Very accurate with detailed health metrics and quotes from Dipke. The objectivity is strong but slightly biased in favor of the protest narrative through Dipke's direct appeals for support.
The HinduIndependentProgressiveFactual 98Objective 874 days agoOn July 5, 2026, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, leading a hunger strike as part of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) protest, entered its 16th day, marking the eighth day of his fast. The protest, centered around allegations of examination irregularities and demands for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, saw Wangchuk lose approximately six kilograms. Medical reports indicated his vital signs were stable but noted significant weight loss. The CJP highlighted the case of NEET aspirant Riya Kumari Thapa, whose family claimed she died due to the impact of alleged paper leaks, though this claim remains unverified. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), a farmers' organization, initially supported the CJP but is now planning to send a delegation to the protest site, expressing solidarity with students demanding transparency in exams.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protest as a legitimate demand for governmental accountability and highlights the personal tragedy of a student allegedly affected by exam irregularities. It emphasizes the suffering of families and the need for systemic change, aligning with left-leaning narratives that focus
Why these scores (Factual 98 · Objective 87): Extremely accurate with detailed health metrics and the open letter to Modi. The objectivity is high but slightly influenced by the protest's framing of the situation.
Scroll.inIndependentCenterFactual 97Objective 895 days agoThe article discusses a protest group known as the 'Cockroach Janta Party' that has been holding a sit-in at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since June 20. The group consists primarily of young volunteers like Vivek Kumar, a 19-year-old who describes the movement as a 'family' rather than a traditional political party. They are protesting against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for his failure to conduct secure examinations for medical college admissions and government jobs. The article explores the motivations and aspirations of the protesters, highlighting their transformation from being fearful of the government to becoming more assertive.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the perspectives of the protesters without overtly favoring one side. It includes direct quotes from participants and outlines their grievances regarding government actions, while maintaining a neutral tone in describing the situation.
Why these scores (Factual 97 · Objective 89): Very factual with precise health data and quotes from Dipke. The objectivity is strong, though the focus on the protest's demands may subtly favor the movement's viewpoint.
The HinduIndependentProgressiveFactual 96Objective 844 days ago Fresh political support pours in on 15th day of CJP protest; student hospitalisedThe Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) continues its 15-day protest at Jantar Mantar, receiving new political backing from AAP MP Sanjay Singh and CPI(M) MP John Brittas. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been fasting for seven days, while one AISA student leader, Danish Ali, was hospitalized due to low blood sugar levels after prolonged fasting. AISA reported that five other activists remain on hunger strike alongside Wangchuk. Singh criticized the BJP government for neglecting student concerns and called for parliamentary action, urging the PM to resolve the situation. Brittas described the protest as a national movement against an 'insensitive and irresponsible government,' highlighting examination irregularities and advocating for democratic rights. Wangchuk emphasized the international implications of any forceful removal of protesters and demanded accountability in education.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protest as a legitimate and urgent student-led movement against governmental negligence, emphasizing calls for accountability and democratic rights. Political figures from left-leaning parties (AAP, CPI(M)) are portrayed as supportive of the students' demands, while the BJP is
Why these scores (Factual 96 · Objective 84): Highly factual with updates on political support and a hospitalized student. The objectivity is maintained but shows slight bias in quoting political figures supporting the protest.
Times of IndiaIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 864 days ago Day 16 of CJP protest: Sonam Wangchuk loses 6 kg during hunger strikeDay 16 of a protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in New Delhi has focused on allegations of paper leaks and examination irregularities affecting students' academic futures. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, a key figure in the protest, has been on an indefinite hunger strike for eight days, losing approximately six kilograms. Medical reports indicate his vital signs remain stable, though his weight has decreased significantly. The CJP has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the situation, criticizing his perceived silence. The protest has drawn support from various groups, including student unions and civil society organizations, with some participants facing health issues due to their participation.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protest as a legitimate form of civil disobedience aimed at holding the government accountable. It emphasizes the personal sacrifice of Sonam Wangchuk and portrays the CJP's demands as morally urgent. The focus on systemic failures in examinations and the call for government '
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 86): Highly factual with specific details about the protest duration and Wangchuk's health. The objectivity is strong but shows a slight lean toward the protest's narrative through the open letter content.
The HinduIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 855 days ago Day 15 of CJP protest: Fasting Wangchuk's health worsens; 'Why Pradhan not sacked yet,' Dipke asksOn July 4, 2026, climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk began his seventh day of an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, supporting youth-led protests against alleged irregularities in examinations and demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), led by Abhijeet Dipke, reported that Wangchuk had lost five kilograms and his health was deteriorating. Dipke criticized the government for not removing Pradhan, questioning why the prime minister had not acted despite the deaths of 20 students. Wangchuk also called for greater accountability in education following recent progress in talks between the central government and Ladakh representatives. Meanwhile, six students from the All India Students' Association (AISA) continued their hunger strike at a separate location, marking the 15th day of the ongoing protests.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protest as a legitimate call for accountability, emphasizing the activists' suffering and questioning the government's inaction. The tone leans toward criticizing the government and highlighting the moral responsibility of officials, particularly Dharmendra Pradhan. The use of
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): Highly factual with specific details about Wangchuk's health and Dipke's statements. However, the tone leans slightly towards the protest's perspective, using phrases like 'deteriorating fast' and questioning why Pradhan hasn't been sacked.
Scroll.inIndependentProgressiveFactual 92Objective 8211 days ago CJP protest: Activist Sonam Wangchuk begins hunger strike in DelhiActivist Sonam Wangchuk initiated a hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Sunday, joining protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The protests, which began on June 6, demand Pradhan's resignation due to alleged mismanagement in competitive exams. Party founder Abhijeet Dipke accused the Delhi Police of cutting off sanitation facilities and failing to provide basic amenities during the hunger strike. He also reported that farmers' leaders from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab were placed under house arrest to restrict their participation in the protest. The movement originated after Chief Justice Surya Kant made controversial remarks comparing unemployed youth to 'cockroaches,' leading to widespread online support and over 22 million followers on Instagram. The chief justice later denied making such comments, stating they were misinterpreted.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the Cockroach Janta Party's actions as a legitimate protest against government mismanagement, emphasizing the activists' demands and the perceived suppression by authorities. While the issue of governance and accountability is presented neutrally, the focus on the party's social媒體
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 82): Factual with background on the protest origins and Dipke's allegations. The objectivity is somewhat compromised by the focus on the protest's perspective and the mention of alleged police actions without counterpoints.
Times of IndiaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 6510 days ago Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike enters day 2 at Jantar MantarClimate activist Sonam Wangchuk continued his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on the second day, joining the ongoing protest led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP). The CJP, founded by Abhijeet Dipke, has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan due to alleged irregularities in examinations. Dipke accused authorities of denying access to basic facilities like portable toilets and clean water at the protest site. He highlighted public support for the movement, noting participants traveling from Bihar to join the demonstration. Supporters include students, farmers, and civil society members, with some farmer leaders reportedly placed under house arrest to prevent their participation. The protest began on June 20 and includes a two-minute silence before Wangchuk started his fast.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the protest as a legitimate public concern, emphasizing the activists' demands and the suppression of their rights. It highlights the involvement of prominent figures like Sonam Wangchuk and mentions the alleged targeting of supporters through house arrests, suggesting a critique
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 65): Facts about the torch rally, demands for Pradhan's resignation, and the impact of the NEET leak are reported accurately. The article maintains some objectivity but still frames the situation through the lens of the Youth Congress, using terms like 'failure of the NDA government' and 'least concern f
India TodayIndependentProgressiveyesterdayActivist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar for 10 days, became the focus of online criticism after videos emerged showing CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke eating bread pakodas and noodles at the protest site. Critics questioned why Dipke continued to eat while Wangchuk fasted, with some mocking the contrast. In response, Dipke claimed the videos were taken out of context and stated that the party's core team intentionally avoided participating in the hunger strike to ensure the protest could continue. He also expressed concern over Wangchuk's health, noting he had urged the activist to end the fast, though Wangchuk refused. The protests, led by Dipke's Cockroach Janta Party, initially started as a satirical movement inspired by Chief Justice Surya Kant's comments comparing activists to 'cockroaches' and later gained momentum due to concerns over exam paper leaks in the NEET-UG 2026 exams.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the controversy around Dipke's actions in a way that highlights the hypocrisy of consuming food while an activist fasts, implying a moral or ethical stance against such behavior. While the article presents both perspectives (Dipke's defense and critics' mockery), the emphasis on '
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