The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has declared its intention to continue its 'Sansad Chalo' (March to Parliament) protest in Delhi on Tuesday, following a day of intense confrontations with police. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke made the announcement late Monday night from Jantar Mantar, where thousands of supporters had re-gathered after earlier clashes.
Violent Clashes Mark First Day of Protest
Monday marked the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and the beginning of the CJP's march, which saw thousands demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. As protesters attempted to advance towards Parliament, Delhi Police deployed tear gas, used lathis and batons, and conducted a lathicharge. Sections of the crowd reportedly responded with stone-pelting. Authorities reported over 118 police personnel were injured, with videos of wounded protesters also circulating online. Internet services were suspended in the protest vicinity and remained disrupted late into the night.
Despite the scale of the violence, hundreds of CJP supporters returned to Jantar Mantar by nightfall, quickly erecting a makeshift stage. Police officials confirmed that security arrangements would remain in place for Tuesday's planned continuation of the march.
Government Engages Amidst Street Confrontations
Even as clashes unfolded, the government initiated communication with the CJP. Representatives of the party met Union Health Minister JP Nadda twice on Monday. During the initial meeting, Nadda requested the protesters' demands in writing. A written memorandum outlining three key demands was submitted in a subsequent meeting later that day.
Context of Demands and Ongoing Activism
The CJP's protest, alongside activism from figures like Sonam Wangchuk, has been ongoing at Jantar Mantar since early June. Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike, was detained and hospitalized. He has stipulated conditions for ending his fast, including government accountability for examination paper leaks and a meeting with Members of Parliament. Delhi Police have begun registering First Information Reports (FIRs) and are reviewing footage to investigate whether Monday's violence was pre-meditated. The confrontations on Monday were among the most significant Delhi has witnessed in years, setting the stage for potential further direct clashes on Tuesday.