Jantar Mantar Protest Highlights: Centre airlifts 10 more CRPF companies to amp up security in Delhi

Cockroach Janta Party leader Abhijeet Dipke on Friday said they won’t accept anything less than Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.

Police personnel at Jantar Mantar (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)Police personnel at Jantar Mantar (Express Photo by Tashi Tobgyal)

The Centre has directed the airlifting of 10 more CRPF companies from Chhattisgarh to deploy in Delhi to bolster security measures in view of the student protest underway, officials said on Friday. They told news agency PTI that about 150 CAPF companies will be deployed in Delhi over the next few days. A CAPF company has about 100 personnel.

About 100 such companies are already in Delhi assisting the local police with law and order duties, officials said.

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47 NTA officials sacked

In an overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA), 47 officials have been sacked following mass protests over NEET paper leaks. The move comes hours after a government delegation met CJP leaders at Constitution Club.

This comes after an action-packed night on Thursday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a video message assuring the student protestors that a tough new law was on its way. The Prime Minister’s message came hours after he announced fast-track courts to punish those behind paper leaks.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was on a hunger strike for 26 days, ended his fast early Friday after MPs from both ruling and opposition blocs urged him to do so. The activist ended his fast at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram in presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke said he was relieved that Wangchuk has ended his fast, but announced that the peaceful protest will continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. Wangchuk has urged protesters to remain peaceful, saying he was pained by reports that “anti-social elements” were trying to provoke violence.

18 Metro stations shut today

Delhi Metro has announced that entry gates for Mandi House and Central Secretariat metro stations are now open. Earlier in the day, DMRC announced that 18 stations in Central Delhi will remained closed over the ongoing protest. This comes after the DMRC had shut 16 Metro Stations since Wednesday. It announced shutting Jhandewalan station on Thursday evening and New Delhi Railway Station earlier today.

Nationwide protest today

The Cockroach Janta Party has announced a nationwide protest on Friday against the alleged police brutality across the country. The CJP has also clarified that the peaceful protest will continue at Jantar Mantar.

Live Updates
Jul 24, 2026 10:34 PM IST
Congress's Karan Singh urges PM Modi to 'intervene effectively' in student protests

Veteran Congress leader Karan Singh on Friday appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene effectively so that the protesting students in Delhi feel that they are being listened to at the highest level.

In a statement, Singh, a former 'Sadr-e-Riyasat' of Jammu and Kashmir, said police action was not a solution to address the issue.

"As a PhD student myself and also as former chancellor of four universities, I have deep concern for the welfare of students around the country. This whole situation could have been neatly avoided had the concerned minister himself offered to resign after the NEET debacle," he said.

Singh said it was "unfortunate" that the resignation did not happen and student protests have broken out around the country.

Jul 24, 2026 09:46 PM IST
Special task force constituted to investigate public exam offences

Delhi Police has constituted a special task force to investigate public exam offences.

Jul 24, 2026 09:30 PM IST
Uttarakhand constable faces heat after speech in Delhi's Jantar Mantar

The Uttarakhand Police has intensified legal and departmental action against a suspended constable, who allegedly made "provocative and irresponsible statements" during a student protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, officials told PTI.

In a video that has surfaced on the internet, the accused constable, Sher Singh, during his address at Jantar Mantar, questioned the government over exam irregularities and claimed that leaked question papers are available at "grocery stores." Further announcing his support for the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), he declared his resignation from the police service.

However, according to the police, Singh is already an accused in a serious criminal case, and dismissal proceedings against him are underway.

Kumaon Inspector General (IG) of Police Nivedita Kukreti said on Friday that the constable, posted in Pithoragarh district, had been absent from duty without permission since June 28 of this year.

Jul 24, 2026 09:11 PM IST
'Pause to earn ethos of fasting for 26 days for cause larger than yourself'

Gitanjali Angmo, wife of Sonam Wangchuk, said, "Before you rush to criticise Wangchuk, first pause to earn the ethos of fasting for 26 days for a cause larger than yourself."

She added, "He lies in the ICU today, having lost 11 kg, including muscle mass, because he chose sacrifice over comfort. The least we can offer him is a day of compassion before burdening him with our own expectations and political calculations. Not everyone is qualified to judge a life of selfless service. One must first earn the moral stature to do so. Please..Have a heart."

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Jul 24, 2026 08:55 PM IST
'Withdraw posts or face action': Kapil Sibal slams DU, JNU VCs for 'threatening' students

With the Delhi University and the Jawaharlal Nehru University warning students to "stay away" from Jantar Mantar protests, former education minister Kapil Sibal slammed the vice chancellors of the two universities and warned that if these "threatening" social media posts were not withdrawn, it may invite legal action.

"I am surprised at what the VCs of the high-level institutions in our country are doing. I have seen a tweet regarding JNU ...Tell us which Supreme Court direction it is where they say that you cannot go to Jantar Mantar; It means that you, Vice Chancellor, will tell your staff, community, lecturers, students that you should responsibly do your work, do not go to Jantar Mantar, do not tweet, do not go on social media, do not put your opinion before the public, do not take sides," Sibal said.

"What do you want, that our students should become government employees? Should our academicians also become government employees? If you have become government employees, then everyone should also become government employees? So citizens of India also become government employees, then why do we talk about democracy," Sibal said at the press conference.

Jul 24, 2026 08:16 PM IST
47 NTA officials sacked

In an overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA), 47 officials have been sacked following mass protests over NEET paper leaks. The move comes hours after a government delegation met CJP leaders at Constitution Club.

Jul 24, 2026 08:00 PM IST
'We couldn't fight back, but you, with your reels, and Instagram generation, dismantled them in 4 days'

Addressing the gathering at the CJP protest at Jantar Mantar, TMC leader Mahua Moitra says, "What we couldn't achieve in 12 years, forcing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release a video at midnight while reading from a teleprompter, you made happen. Two Cabinet ministers coming out and begging you, we couldn't pull that off, but you made them do it! We couldn't fight back, but you, with your short videos, reels, and Instagram generation, dismantled them within four days! We have made it clear that Dharmendra Pradhan must resign first, and only then will we talk. This fight has gone far beyond Sonam Wangchuk; this fight has gone far beyond Abhijeet (Dipke), Saurabh (Das), and Ashutosh (Ranka)."

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Jul 24, 2026 07:46 PM IST
What unfolded during the Kolkata protest?

A massive protest march in Kolkata, seeking Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, started at the Sealdah market metro station around 1.45pm. A confrontation broke out at Esplanade’s Dorina Crossing at around 5.50pm, towards the end of the rally.

Police personnel attempting to remove blockades and clear the intersection were met with heavy resistance from agitators, leading to shoe hurling and stone pelting.

Read our complete account of what unfolded during the protests.

Jul 24, 2026 07:34 PM IST
Centre airlifts 10 more CRPF companies for Delhi

The Centre has directed the airlifting of 10 more CRPF companies from Chhattisgarh to deploy in Delhi to bolster security measures in view of the student protest underway.

Officials told PTI that a security review meeting held on Thursday required all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) units scheduled to be stationed in the national capital ahead of Independence Day to report early.

They said that about 150 CAPF companies will be deployed in Delhi over the next few days. A CAPF company has about 100 personnel.

About 100 such companies are already in Delhi assisting the local police with law and order duties, officials said.

Jul 24, 2026 07:11 PM IST
Sonam Wangchuk health update

After breaking his fast, Sonam Wangchuk is now on a liquid diet. He is stable and alert, with all vital signs within accepted levels. He will remain under observation, Anonna Dutt reports.

Jul 24, 2026 06:40 PM IST
Union Cabinet approves draft bill for stricter punishments in paper leak cases

The Union Cabinet on Friday approved a draft bill to ensure stricter punishments for paper leaks, including a fine of up to Rs 10 crore, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an announcement to this effect, official sources told news agency PTI.

The Cabinet meeting chaired by the prime minister at the Parliament House complex approved the draft bill to hand stricter punishments to those involved in paper leaks as compared to the existing law, they said.

The bill will amend 'The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024', proposing a minimum punishment of five years' imprisonment for individuals involved in paper leaks and/or a fine.

It proposes a jail term of up to 10 years and a maximum fine of Rs 10 crore in case of organised paper leaks, the sources said.

Jul 24, 2026 06:24 PM IST
Mamata Banerjee backs protesters

Extending support for students protesting across the country, TMC leader Mamata Banerjee posted on X saying, "I have stood firmly with the students and their movement from the very beginning. Their fight is not just for justice in the NEET scam- It is a fight to protect the future of every young Indian."

She added, "The brutal crackdown by the Delhi Police on peaceful protesters is deeply disturbing and utterly unacceptable. Students were mercilessly beaten, lathi-charged, fired upon with pellet guns and subjected to tear gas simply for demanding accountability. So fearful is the Union Government of a peaceful democratic movement that it reportedly suspended internet services in and around Jantar Mantar and invoked the draconian National Security Act (NSA) to carry out preventive detentions of students- The very future of our nation."

Jul 24, 2026 06:04 PM IST
Entry gates of Mandi House, Central Secretariat metro stations now open

Entry gates for Mandi House and Central Secretariat metro stations are now open, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) posted on X.

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Jul 24, 2026 06:01 PM IST
Protesters clash with cops in Kolkata

Agitators in support of Jantar Mantar CJP protest clashed with police in Kolkata. Protesters threw shoes and water bottles towards police personnel while they tried to disperse the crowd, Sweety Kumari reports.

Clashes erupted between protesters and police at the Dorina Crossing in Esplanade around 5.50pm. The rally started around 1.45pm.

Jul 24, 2026 05:43 PM IST
Youth Congress chief shaves off moustache during protest

Youth Congress workers, led by its chief Uday Bhanu Chib, shaved off his moustache during the protest, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

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Jul 24, 2026 05:36 PM IST
RAF launches probe into actions of its personnel during Delhi protests

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) has initiated an inquiry into allegations of its personnel using disproportionate force and firing pellet guns during the ongoing student protests in Delhi, officials told news agency PTI.

The officials told PTI that the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has asked the inspector general (IG) of the RAF, its special anti-riots unit, to verify the sequence of events its various teams undertook to "control" the protesters as well as incidents where they were attacked.

Jul 24, 2026 05:19 PM IST
'No paper leak today': Ashwini Vaishnaw's response to draft Bill question

"No paper leak is happening today," says Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw when asked whether the Union Cabinet had approved a draft Bill providing for stricter punishments in paper leak cases.

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Jul 24, 2026 05:13 PM IST
Man falsely claiming to have resigned from service, says Delhi Police

Issuing a clarification on a viral video of a man claiming to have resigned from the police, the Delhi Police posted on X saying that the claim is false.

The Delhi police said, "A video is being circulated on social media in which an individual claims to be a Delhi Police Sub-Inspector who had recently resigned from service to join the ongoing protest. The claim is false. Verification of Delhi Police records has found no Sub-Inspector matching the details claimed in the video. The video is false, misleading, and appears to be a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation. Strict legal action will be taken against those found creating, circulating, or amplifying such fake content."

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Jul 24, 2026 05:10 PM IST
CJP to launch website for injured protesters

"We are launching a website where injured protesters and people assaulted by police can upload photos of the police personnel involved, If the Delhi Police does not register an FIR, we will file complaints against them and approach the court," CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said.

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Jul 24, 2026 05:03 PM IST
Rahul Gandhi on protesters hit by pellet guns

Speaking about the Delhi Police using pellet guns on protesters, LoP Rahul Gandhi posted saying, "On July 20, the Delhi Police attacked the face of 19-year-old Sahil with a pellet gun while he was peacefully protesting. Sahil is a student at Delhi University, but to support his family, he also drives a part-time car. He himself was a victim of the 2025 SSC Delhi Constable paper leak. Now, he fears that the SSC has again given the contract to the same agency, and the paper will be leaked once more. He had joined the protest demanding justice and a better future. Today, the situation is such that there is a risk of him permanently losing vision in one eye."

He added, "This is the punishment our students receive for asking questions and demanding accountability. We stand with Sahil. We stand with every student demanding accountability. Modi ji, apologize to the children of the country for this sin of yours, take strict action against those responsible for it, and immediately dismiss Dharmendra Pradhan."

Jul 24, 2026 04:35 PM IST
Protest held in Kolkata over NEET paper leak

All India Democratic Students' Organisation members hold protest in Kolkata over the NEET paper leak issue.

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Jul 24, 2026 04:14 PM IST
Centre-CJP next meet on Saturday, says Nadda

Government and CJP representatives will meet again on Saturday, says Union Minister JP Nadda, news agency PTI reported.

Jul 24, 2026 04:08 PM IST
Letter of demands submitted by CJP

Earlier today, CJP leaders met a government delegation and submitted a letter on their demands. The letter submitted by the CJP reads: "We have arrived at a clear consensus that our demands, namely the resignation of Mr Dharmendra Pradhan ₹1 crore compensation for NEET victims, and no legal action against protestors, are non-negotiable. Furthermore, the Government of India, the head of the Rapid Action Force, and the Delhi Police Commissioner ought to publicly apologise to the students who were brutally thrashed by their forces."

Take a look at the letter. (Source: Special Arrangement)

Jul 24, 2026 03:56 PM IST
'Dharmendra Pradhan is a criminal education minister', says Congress

Demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the Congress posted on X saying, " Dharmendra Pradhan is a criminal Education Minister. He has to be removed. He is the symbol of the collapse of our education system. He is the reason thousands of people are outside."

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Jul 24, 2026 03:34 PM IST
Centre needs time to consider CJP's demands, says J P Nadda

Union Health Minister J P Nadda said the government would need time to consider and discuss the demands presented by the CJP. He said there could be further discussions with the CJP, indicating that there is no deadlock, Sophiya Mathew reports.

Jul 24, 2026 03:25 PM IST
Delhi HC declines entertaining plea seeking NIA probe into alleged foreign funding of protesters

Delhi High Court declines to entertain plea seeking NIA probe into alleged foreign funding of protesters and alleged injuries suffered by police personnel during the 'Sansad Chalo' march on July 20, even as the government suggested the court that it can issue notice.

The petition by an ex-vice president of Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, was withdrawn after Delhi HC indicated that it is not inclined to entertain the petition.

Addressing SG Tushar Mehta, the court said, “Are you saying you’re not following (laid down mandate, to need court directions)? There is every authority available to you to deal with such situations. Do that. You’re under a mandate (to act according to laid down law)”

-Sohini Ghosh reports

Jul 24, 2026 03:23 PM IST
SC to hear 2 petition on alleged use of force by cops

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear two petitions about alleged use of force by police on protestors in Jantar Mantar on Monday, Ananthakrishnan G reports.

Jul 24, 2026 03:19 PM IST
CJP gives Centre 24 hours to respond

CJP spokesperson Sourav Das said the government has until 2 pm tomorrow to respond to the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, Sophiya Mathew reports.

Jul 24, 2026 03:00 PM IST
CJP warns of bigger protest if government does not meet demand

After the meeting with government delegation, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said that if the government does not meet this demand, the CJP will launch protests on a much larger scale across the country.

Jul 24, 2026 02:59 PM IST
CJP says nationwide protests unless Education Minister resigns in 24 hours

The CJP delegation that met with government at the Constitution Club has given Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan 24 hours to resign.

Jul 24, 2026 02:52 PM IST
CJP leaders Ashutosh Ranka, Saurav Das step out after meeting with government delegation

CJP leaders Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das have just stepped out of the Constitution Club room where the meeting was underway with the government delegation. Security personnel formed a human chain to escort them out, The Indian Express’ Sophiya Mathew reports.

Jul 24, 2026 02:47 PM IST
Rahul Gandhi says no Lok Sabha discussion until Dharmendra Pradhan quits

Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi said no discussion over paper leaks will take place in the House until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns from his post. The statement from the Congress leader came just minutes after the Lok Sabha was adjourned with Opposition members raising slogans following Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju’s announcement that the government was ready for a discussion on paper leaks. “Rijijuji gave a statement that they want our MPs to hold a discussion. The normal protocol is that if someone names a person, he or she is allowed to respond. We were told that they want a discussion. When I wanted to reply, the mic was taken away from me. I was not given an opportunity," Rahul Gandhi said. Read full report

Jul 24, 2026 02:42 PM IST
Cabinet briefing at 4 PM, announcement likely on Bill against paper leak

The Union Cabinet is set to address a briefing 4 PM on Friday. The Cabinet is likely to announce the bill against paper leak.

Jul 24, 2026 02:21 PM IST
Talks between CJP and government underway

The talk between the Cockroach Janta Party and the government is underway after the two sides agreed to meet at a neutral place.

Jul 24, 2026 02:08 PM IST
Differences between Sonam Wangchuk and CJP? Saurav Das answers big question

As activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his fast earlier today and CJP delegation at Constitutional Club for meeting with government, the big question remains: have differences cropped up between Wangchuk and the CJP over the direction of the protest, which has now reached beyond the confines of Delhi’s Jantar Mantar into several cities across the country?

CJP leader Saurav Das told The Indian Express' Asad Rehman that there are no differences between them and Wangchuk. “We want Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and the larger issues of students, including a compensation of Rs 1 crore for families, must be addressed. If we have started (something), we will go till the end. We are concerned about his (Wangchuk) health. He has lost 11 kg. He wrote a letter, and that is his opinion. We won’t let his efforts go to waste. We will make this (movement) reach its conclusion.” CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, too, made it clear in his address to the gathering at Jantar Mantar on Friday morning that the demand for Pradhan’s resignation stands. Read full story

Jul 24, 2026 01:43 PM IST
DMRC closes New Delhi Metro station amid CJP protests

DMRC has shut the New Delhi Metro station amid the ongoing CJP protests. "No interchange facility shall be available at this station," the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. Now, a total of 18 Metro stations have been shut in Delhi-NCR.

Here's the full list of closed Metro stations:

1. Lok Kalyan Marg 2. Rajiv Chowk 3. Patel Chowk 4. Ramakrishna Ashram Marg 5. Barakhambha Road 6. Supreme Court 7. Seva Teerth 8. Janpath 9. Mandi House 10. Central Secretariat 11. ITO 12. Delhi Gate 13. Indraprastha 14. Khan Market 15. Jor Bagh 16. Shivaji Stadium 17. Jhandewalan 18. New Delhi

Jul 24, 2026 01:38 PM IST
Abhijeet Dipke alleges arrest threat to leaders before 'crowds swell over weekend'

CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke says the outfit was informed that since tomorrow is Saturday, followed by Sunday, a much larger crowd is expected. "That is why the government is trying to detain or arrest us tonight. If that happens, it will be another major mistake by the government. When they took Sonam Wangchuk away, the movement only grew stronger. When students were lathi-charged and injured, the protests intensified further. If we are also detained, the movement will spread even more across the country. If the government truly wants to resolve this movement, there is only one solution: the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan," Dipke says.

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Jul 24, 2026 01:32 PM IST
‘Not a single page was filed’: CJI Kant refutes reports on student protest plea

Refuting reports that he had failed to list for a hearing a petition seeking the Supreme Court’s intervention in the alleged police excesses against protesting students in Delhi, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, on Friday, clarified no petition had been filed and that the court had received only a lawyer’s representation. Presiding over a three-judge bench, CJI Kant made the remarks during mentioning hours, when lawyers bring matters that require urgent listing to the court’s attention.

“In the last two days, a completely false statement was made that a matter has been filed. And the media is absolutely free from all responsibility, falsely reporting that the Chief Justice refused to list the matter,” the CJI said as Senior Advocate Shoeb Alam sought listing of an unrelated matter. Read full report

Jul 24, 2026 01:24 PM IST
J P Nadda arrives at Constitution Club for talks with CJP members

Health Minister J P Nadda has arrived at the Constitution Club for talks with CJP members, The Indian Express' Sophiya Mathew reports.

Jul 24, 2026 01:18 PM IST
Sonam Wangchuk kept in isolation, now allowed to meet Opposition MPs: Abhijeet Dipke

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that Sonam Wangchuk was kept in isolation and that members of his team were not allowed to meet him. Talking to reporters, he said, "I feel Sonam Wangchuk was virtually being held in isolation. While JP Nadda was able to meet him, no opposition MP was allowed to do so. Even members of our team were not permitted to meet him. In a way, the government had kept him isolated. But I am very glad, happy and relieved that Sonam has ended his hunger strike. That is what we wanted, and we had also requested him to do so. His life is extremely important for the country, its students and the future of the education system."

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Jul 24, 2026 12:58 PM IST
Court dismisses bail plea of accused in NEET leak case

The Rouse Avenue Court has dismissed the bail application of Dr Manoj Shirure in the NEET paper leak case. The CBI alleged that he played a key role in helping students in getting the Chemistry questions from accused P V Kulkarni.

Jul 24, 2026 12:55 PM IST
Delhi Police suspends leaves of all personnel over law and order concerns

Delhi Police has cancelled all routine leaves of its personnel with immediate effect amid the ongoing protest in the capital, police sources told PTI on Friday. The order issued by the police headquarters on Thursday has been circulated to the DCPs of all the districts, the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), the Indira Gandhi International Airport, and other senior officers, the report said.

As per the move, no routine leave, including casual leave and earned leave, would be granted until further orders, and only genuine emergency leave would be considered after due verification by the competent authority.

Jul 24, 2026 12:51 PM IST
Will monitor steps taken to curb NEET paper leak: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court on Friday said it will monitor steps taken to curb NEET paper leak. The court said it expect the government to take concrete steps on cyber security, data protection as NTA plans computer-based test for NEET-UG exam from next year. The court's remarks come after the Centre submitted that it is taking some stringent measures.

Jul 24, 2026 12:42 PM IST
Supreme Court directs Centre, NTA to file affidavits on progress made on NEET leak

The Supreme Court has directed the Centre and the National Testing Agency to file a detailed affidavits on the progress made in implementing reforms after the NEET paper leak. A bench of Justices P S Narasimha and Alok Aradhe said the affidavit must explain the steps taken to institutionalise the reforms instead of relying on ad hoc measures, ANI reported.

The apex court sought details on the proposed governing board, expert-led units, stakeholder nominations and the implementation of the High-Powered Committee’s recommendations across ten verticals, including digital infrastructure, security, research and development, transparency, administration and human resources.

Jul 24, 2026 12:38 PM IST
'End of a hunger strike not the end of struggle': Tharoor 'relieved' as Wangchuk ends hunger strike

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said he is relieved that activist Sonam Wangchuk has ended his fast even as he said that the end of the hunger strike is not the end of the struggle.

"I am relieved that Sonam @Wangchuk66 has ended his fast and I wish him a full and speedy recovery. His extraordinary sacrifice has helped bring national attention to a crisis that should never have been ignored. But let us be clear: the end of a hunger strike is not the end of this struggle. The fight for a fair, transparent and accountable education system continues. The students who have raised their voices deserve justice, not silence," Tharoor said.

Jul 24, 2026 12:31 PM IST
CJP delegation to meet ministers shortly at Constitution Club

The CJP delegation is set to meet government representatives shortly. The Indian Express' Sophiya Mathew is at the Constitution Club, where the big talks are set to happen.

Jul 24, 2026 12:26 PM IST
CJP's Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Dass' leave for Constitutional Club meeting with government

Alok Singh reports from Jantar Mantar that CJP spokespersons Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Dass have left for the meeting with government representatives, which is scheduled to take place at the Constitutional Club at 12:30 PM.

Jul 24, 2026 12:23 PM IST
After breaking 26-day fast, Sonam Wangchuk says ‘hunger doesn’t taste bad’

Hours after ending his fast in support of the students’ protest led by CJP, activist Sonam Wangchuk said he broke his fast after a “hard bargain” with the Centre over several demands. Wangchuk said Union Ministers J P Nadda and Jitendra Singh, on behalf of the Centre, gave him a written assurance on three issues: that no cases will be lodged against protesting students, a discussion will be held in Parliament to find a solution to paper leaks, and that suitable compensation will be given to suicide victims of recent NEET paper leaks. While ending his fast, he said after 26 days of fasting, it “tastes good, but hunger doesn’t taste bad”. Read full report

Jul 24, 2026 12:13 PM IST
Abhijeet Dipke says CJP protest to continue, demand to sack Dharmendra Pradhan remains

Dodging an internet blackout, Alok Singh reports from Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on the Cockroach Janta Party briefing ahead of the talks with the government. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said that the protest will continue at Jantar Mantar until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.

"We are very happy and relieved that Sonam Sir has ended his hunger strike. It had already been more than 26 days, and his life is extremely precious to the country," he said. On the meeting with the government, he said, "Our meeting with the government will be held at a neutral venue. However, I would like to reiterate that we are demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan."

Jul 24, 2026 12:06 PM IST
'Won't accept anything less than Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation': Abhijeet Dipke

Cockroach Janta Party leader Abhijeet Dipke on Friday said they won't accept anything less than Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. The remark comes ahead of the meeting with government at 12:30 PM on Friday. "The team will meet JP Nadda at a neutral location at 12.30 pm. We will not accept anything less than Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation!" the CJP said in a social media post.

Jul 24, 2026 12:00 PM IST
'Act responsibly, prioritize personal safety': JNU issues statement over CJP protest

Jawaharlal Nehru University has issued a statement amid the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest warning the students to "act responsibly and prioritize personal safety", The Indian Express' Vidheesha Kuntamalla reports. In a statement, JNU said, "In accordance with the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s directions on public demonstrations, you are requested to refrain from participating in or visiting gatherings at or around Jantar Mantar, New Delhi."

It added that the violations may invite legal consequences and disciplinary action under the University’s code of conduct. "You are also encouraged to uphold the values of academic responsibility and responsible citizenship," it added.

Jul 24, 2026 11:51 AM IST
CJP and Sonam Wangchuk not on same page? What Saurav Das told The Indian Express

Don’t miss this report from our Hindi team where Saurav Das reveals the next strategy for the Cockroach Jantar Party protest and presents his views on Sonam Wangchuk ending his hunger strike.

Jul 24, 2026 11:43 AM IST
'Nothing less than Pradhan's resignation': Abhijeet Dipke ahead of talks with Government

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has asserted that the ongoing agitation will persist until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan steps down from his post. Speaking to reporters, Dipke expressed relief over Wangchuk's health but remained firm on the movement's primary demand regarding accountability for examination irregularities.

"Our protest will continue until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. We are very happy and relieved that Sonam sir has ended his hunger strike, as it had been over 26 days. His life is extremely precious to this country," Dipke told ANI. The CJP leader reiterated that the talks with the government must occur on neutral ground. "Our demonstration will go on until Dharmendra Pradhan steps down. Any meeting must take place at a neutral location or venue. Nothing less than the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan will be accepted," he added.

Jul 24, 2026 11:35 AM IST
Union Cabinet to meet at 1 pm to clear bill to prevent paper leaks

The government is likely to introduce The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 on Monday, sources told The Indian Express' Liz Mathew. The proposed bill to prevent unfair means in public examinations is expected to be cleared by the Union Cabinet after a meeting at 1 pm on Friday. The bill comes hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in a late-night video message that the government will bring a stringent law to curb paper leaks.

Jul 24, 2026 11:29 AM IST
'How dare you threaten students': Rahul Gandhi slams DU over protest advisory

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday slammed the Delhi University after it asked the students to “stay away from Jantar Mantar” and prioritise safety and compliance with the law. In a post on X, Gandhi said, "How dare you threaten students for exercising their democratic rights? Please note, you are the ones that will be held accountable when the time comes."

The reaction comes after the Delhi University warned student against "unlawful assemblies or demonstrations" at Jantar Mantar, which it said was "strictly regulated as per the directives of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, may invite legal action".

Jul 24, 2026 11:16 AM IST
Protests continue for 5th day against NEET in Chennai

The protests against NEET continued in Chennai on Friday with hundreds of students taking part demanding the scrapping of NEET and resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The sit-in at the Balan Illam, which began on a small scale, gained momentum and soon several film personalities started taking part in the demonstration. According to students' group AISF, Friday was the the fifth consecutive day of the strike, according to PTI.

Jul 24, 2026 11:10 AM IST
'What is the use for fast-track courts, when there are no fast-track judges': P Chidambaram

Reacting to PM Modi's video message for protesting students, Congress veteran P Chidambaram questioned what is the use of fast-track courts, when there are no fast-track judges. "What is the use for fast-track courts? There are fast-track courts for every subject but there are no fast-track judges. There are not enough judges to fill the existing courts. They don't appoint judges and they create a fast-track court. A fast-track court is not a building... it's a judge, a courtmaster, staff... when will they create that?" Chidambaram said.

Jul 24, 2026 11:07 AM IST
'PM's assurances hollow': Arvind Kejriwal slams Modi's video message

AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal has slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he issued a video assuring protesters to bring a legislation to curb paper leaks. Hitting out at the PM, Kejriwal said, "The Prime Minister announced that a law will be introduced in Parliament on Monday to establish fast-track courts for paper leaks. How hollow the assurance given by Modi ji is was proven yesterday itself. The mastermind of the 2024 NEET paper leak was declared innocent by the CBI in court yesterday. If this is the kind of investigation to be done, if you have no evidence to present at all, then why the drama of fast-track courts? Modi ji, there's a flaw in your very intentions."

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Jul 24, 2026 10:54 AM IST
Delhi HC agrees to hear plea challenging internet restrictions at Jantar Mantar

The Delhi High Court is set to hear a plea challenging the internet restrictions at Jantar Mantar today. The court will also hear a petition challenging constant surveillance at the protest site.

Jul 24, 2026 10:45 AM IST
Opposition resumes protest at Parliament gates

The Opposition's protest at the Parliament gates resumed on Friday as the two Houses are set to resume proceedings at 11 am today. The protest over NEET leak issue has led to disruptions inside the Parliament with the Opposition demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Jul 24, 2026 10:17 AM IST
CJP set to hold talks with govt at Constitution Club

The government and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) are set to hold talks at the Constitution Club of India on Friday, PTI reported. The development comes after the Centre "agreed" to the outfit's request that the meeting be held at a neutral venue. However, there was no official confirmation from the government on it so far.

According to PTI, the meeting is likely to be held around 12.30 pm. CJP leader Saurav Das said the outfit welcomed the government's decision to "accept its request for a neutral venue".

Jul 24, 2026 10:05 AM IST
‘I just did the Bombay thing’: Woman’s 40-minute standoff with a police van in Mumbai

The Indian Express' Sabah Virani reports from Mumbai on the viral video showing Rhiya Ahir's 40-minute standoff with a police van on Wednesday. Ahir was walking to a protest in Shivaji Park on Wednesday evening when she spotted a police van inching through Dadar traffic, packed with young protesters who had just been detained. She never made it to the protest.

Instead, the 27-year-old stepped in front of the van, stretched out an arm and refused to move. The image of Ahir standing before the police vehicle in the pouring rain has since become one of the defining photographs of the CJP protests in Mumbai. In the picture, she looks fearless. Read full report

Jul 24, 2026 09:50 AM IST
CJP's press conference at 11 am

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is set to address a press conference at 11 am on Friday. The CJP has called for a nationwide strike today.

Jul 24, 2026 09:45 AM IST
'First resignation, then discussion': CJP's message after PM Modi's assurance

The Cockroach Janta Party on Friday said that any discussion with the government would take place only after the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. "First resignation, then discussion," the CJP posted on social media.

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Jul 24, 2026 09:39 AM IST
PM's lack of commitment to accountability evident: Congress on Modi's video message

The Congress on Friday said the "desperate and hassled-looking" Prime Minister Narendra Modi finally broke his silence on paper leaks with a video message, and claimed that his lack of commitment to accountability is evident from his failure to even mention the student protests or the brutality unleashed on them.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said whatever eyewash the PM proposes, the first steps to any resolution are clear - "sack Mantri Pradhan; punish those who beat them; apologise". "The desperate and hassled-looking Pradhan Mantri finally broke his two-month-long silence late last night via a video message to speak on paper leaks," Ramesh said on X.

Jul 24, 2026 09:31 AM IST
Sonam Wangchuk releases video detailing reasons behind ending hunger strike | Watch

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was on a fast for 26 days, released a video message detailing the events that led him to break his fast early Friday. In the video message, he said: "Some time back Union Minister JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh came here. Key leaders of the Ladakh Apex Body also came here. Around 65 MPs submitted a letter requesting me to break the fast. They assured me that they will discuss the NEET paper leak and the examination system. The minister who came here also gave us an assurance following a bargain that was going on."

Jul 24, 2026 09:20 AM IST
Passports of CJP protesters to be cancelled? Delhi Police fact-checks viral claim

The Delhi Police on Thursday categorically denied reports that passports of people involved in violence during the Cockroach Janta Party protest may be cancelled. Calling the claim as “misleading”, the Delhi Police said no such decision has been announced.

“The viral claim is misleading. No such decision has been announced to cancel the passports of CJP protestors. Citizens are advised not to share or amplify misleading posts and to rely only on official information,” the DCP New Delhi said in a social media post. Read full report

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Jul 24, 2026 09:03 AM IST
Mehbooba Mufti with CJP's Saurav Das at Jantar Mantar protest

Mehbooba Mufti joins with Students participate at the protest site at Jantar Mantar, at New Delhi on Thursday, July 23, 2026. The PDP leader is seen interacting with CJP spokesperson Saurav Das. Express photo by Abhinav Saha

Jul 24, 2026 09:00 AM IST
Wangchuk broke his fast at midnight. Here’s how the protest site found out

Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike shortly after midnight, following talks with the Centre, The Indian Express' Akriti Kanodia brings to us the ground report from the Jantar Mantar protest site, where there was little sign of the movement winding down. Hundreds of people streamed out through the barricades even as another long queue waited to enter. Volunteers moved through the crowd handing out food packets, fans and water; doctors sat behind a makeshift medical desk; slogans and songs continued late into the night. A group of protesters had even started an impromptu talent show to keep the crowd engaged. Read full article

Jul 24, 2026 08:56 AM IST
List of Delhi Metro Stations shut on Friday

The Delhi Metro has announced shutting 17 stations in the capital in wake of the ongoing protest at Jantar Mantar. In a post on X, the DMRC shared a list of stations which will be closed to passengers from 7:30 am today. Here is the list of stations:

  • Lok Kalyan Marg
  • Rajiv Chowk
  • Patel Chowk
  • Ramakrishna Ashram Marg
  • Barakhambha Road
  • Supreme Court
  • Seva Teerth
  • Janpath
  • Mandi House
  • Central Secretariat
  • ITO
  • Delhi Gate
  • Indraprastha
  • Khan Market
  • Jor Bagh
  • Shivaji Stadium
  • Jhandewalan

    • The Delhi Metro authorities, however, said that interchange facility will be available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat.

    Jul 24, 2026 08:28 AM IST
    Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day fast, cites ‘long negotiation’ on conditions, ‘possible violence’ in country

    Activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his hunger strike on Friday shortly after midnight, following talks with the Centre. In a post on X, he said, "Just now in the presence of Union Ministers Sh. JP Nadda, Dr. Jitendra Singh and the senior leaders of Apex Body of Leh Ladakh I finally broke my fast after 26 days." Wangchuk said the decision comes after long negotiations "on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country".

    "I will explain the conditions in detail in a separate video very soon. Meanwhile I urge you all to stay very vigillant about not allowing violence of any kind anywhere," he said.

    (Image credit: X/Sonam Wangchuk)

    Jul 24, 2026 08:16 AM IST
    What PM Modi said in midnight video message to protesters

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a late-night broadcast video said that a tough new law on paper leak was on its way. He said he had received its draft and it would be discussed at a meeting of the Cabinet Friday.

    In the video, PM Modi said, “Friends, I am well aware that the issue of paper leaks is not a small matter. It causes immense distress to lakhs of students and their parents. Consequently, numerous measures have been taken over the past two-and-a-half months following these incidents, and the culprits have been apprehended and are currently in jail.”

    “Our primary responsibility was to ensure that the students did not lose an academic year; conducting the examinations promptly was crucial. The government mobilised all its resources to arrange for the exams of 22 lakh students to be held in the shortest possible time, and the results were declared just five or six days ago, on the 19th (of July). While news of the success and happiness of students across the country is coming in, we are not the kind of people to simply rest content with that. That is why I instructed the departments concerned today regarding the establishment of fast-track courts,” he said.

    Jul 24, 2026 08:08 AM IST
    Modi govt treating students seeking accountability as 'enemies of nation': Sonia Gandhi

    Congress veteran Sonia Gandhi on Friday said students have demanded accountability and educational reforms, but the Modi government has responded to their courage with "cowardice and wanton cruelty, treating them not as inheritors of the future but as enemies of the nation". In an opinion article, she accused the government of degrading India's education landscape and asserted that the country's students have called the Modi regime's bluff.

    She emphasised it is a moral, political, and constitutional duty to stand with students and safeguard their future. "The student protests are a natural consequence of these interrelated forces: today's bleak education landscape, which evokes only hopelessness, and the Modi government's trademark arrogance and unwillingness to be accountable or constructive," Gandhi said in an article titled 'An education system's collapse, young India's trauma'.

    Jul 24, 2026 07:56 AM IST
    CJP falls for a nationwide strike today against 'police brutality'

    The Cockroach Janta Party has called for a nationwide strike on Friday to "stand in solidarity with the victims of police brutality." The CJP's nationwide strike comes despite PM Modi's late-night video message assuring protestors of a strict legislation, which will be introduced in the Parliament next week.

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