NEW DELHI – Commuters in the Indian capital faced widespread disruption and uncertainty on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, as the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) shut down 16 stations across central Delhi. The closures, implemented for security reasons, coincided with an ongoing protest by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) against the alleged NEET paper leak, leaving hundreds stranded and sparking fears of job losses.
Metro Stations Closed Amid Central Delhi Protests
The DMRC announced the closure of 16 key stations, including Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk, Mandi House, and Central Secretariat, until further notice. While interchange facilities remained operational at select stations like Rajiv Chowk and Mandi House, direct access to and from these areas was severely restricted. The sudden shutdowns caused chaos during peak hours, with many passengers reporting significant delays and an inability to reach their workplaces.
Scenes of confusion unfolded at Mandi House Metro station, a major interchange hub, where security personnel restricted exits and commuters gathered, demanding answers. “Who will be responsible if we lose our jobs?” one frustrated passenger questioned, while others complained about being stuck for extended periods with little to no information from officials.
CJP Protest Over NEET Paper Leak Intensifies
The metro restrictions were a direct response to the third day of the CJP's sit-in protest at Jantar Mantar. The demonstration, led by activist Sonam Wangchuk, aims to highlight the alleged NEET paper leak and demand accountability from the government. Security has remained exceptionally tight across central Delhi since the CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' march on July 20, which saw clashes between protesters and police near Parliament.
Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite fast since June 28, stated on Wednesday that he would end his hunger strike only if the government provides an unequivocal assurance that students and young protesters involved in the movement would not face legal or retaliatory action. In an open letter to Union ministers, Wangchuk noted that the government had indicated a willingness to consider demands such as compensation for families of students who allegedly died by suicide following the paper leak and a parliamentary discussion on accountability.
The CJP has maintained that its agitation will continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns, underscoring the high stakes involved in the ongoing standoff between the protesters and authorities.