The Jantar Mantar protest began as a student-led movement demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities and education reforms. However, this editorial argues that the agitation has drifted from its original purpose, with violence, attacks on police and journalists, and increasing political involvement overshadowing the students' cause. It calls for peaceful democratic protest while questioning whether the movement now serves political interests more than educational justice.
When a Democratic Protest Loses Its Moral Authority
A protest should have some limits and boundaries that should not be exceeded. The intention of the protest should not be altered; it must be carried out ethically and appropriately. The ongoing protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar has already taken a political turn; there is no doubt about that. However, the protesters are now behaving like hooligans and goons. Recently, Head Constable Balram of the Delhi Police was injured after being allegedly stabbed during the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest near Parliament Street on Wednesday evening. Police said the attack occurred while officers were on deployment.
According to statements released by the Delhi Police, more than 200 security personnel (including the Delhi Police, Rapid Action Force, and CAPF) were injured. A section of the crowd turned aggressive and violent, assaulting officers with sticks, batons, and metal rings, while also throwing large stones and plastic bottles. They reported that 118 personnel were injured on Monday and an additional six officers were injured on Wednesday night, bringing the overall tally of injured personnel during the multi-day protest to more than 200.
On the other hand, at least six to eight field journalists from various media houses have explicitly reported being harassed, chased, or physically assaulted by sections of the crowd. Numerous reports indicate a systematic targeting of reporters who were branded as "godi media" (biased media).
How the Cockroach Janta Party Movement Began?
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest at Jantar Mantar began as a movement demanding reforms in India's examination system and accountability over alleged NEET-UG paper leaks and CBSE marking irregularities. Initially launched as a satirical online campaign following a controversial remark by the Chief Justice, it quickly evolved into a nationwide student movement. The protest gained widespread attention after education activist Sonam Wangchuk joined the agitation at Jantar Mantar with a hunger strike, drawing thousands of students, parents, and supporters to demand transparency and justice in the education system.
Political Diversion Has Overshadowed the Students' Cause
The protest is said to be valid as long as it focuses on its original theme, but here, more than anything, it has become a hidden agenda, with protesters raising slogans in support of Umar Khalid, who was arrested by the Delhi Police under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), India's primary counter-terrorism legislation, on September 13, 2020.
They have given a platform to people like stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, who says, "Yeh sarkaar Sita ke pati ka naam lekar, Nita ke pati ka kaam kar rahi hain." ("This government is taking the name of Sita’s husband while doing the work for Nita’s husband.") On the other hand, Nandita Narain sings, "Bas naam rahega Allah ka, jo ghaib bhi hai haazir bhi." ("Only the name of Allah will remain, who is both unseen and present.") The most controversial actor, Prakash Raj, made the statement: "I will say Jai Samvidhan, not Jai Shri Ram." What is this? Is the protest focused on delivering justice to students or fulfilling their desired wishes? Why are the protesters giving a platform to these goons who have come with a hidden agenda just to spread hatred?
Government's Response and the Way Forward
Most importantly, the protesters are demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This is a completely baseless allegation they are making against him. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan immediately ordered an inquiry into the allegations. He said that, considering the seriousness of the matter, the investigation was subsequently transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on the directions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He stated that the CBI, along with the Special Investigation Team (SIT), initiated action by arresting 13 accused and proceeding with the investigation.
The BJP leader also said that the Centre did not obstruct the protests held at Jantar Mantar and respected citizens' democratic right to demonstrate peacefully. The Centre successfully organised the re-examination within 35 days to ensure students did not lose an academic year. The results were declared within 25 days of the re-examination, with 58 per cent of candidates qualifying. The Centre acted swiftly to ensure transparency while protecting the academic future of students. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi alleged that his protest outside the Prime Minister's residence was politically motivated.
"The government is ready for a comprehensive discussion in Parliament. The Opposition should participate in the debate instead of creating unrest on the streets." Anti-social elements had infiltrated the demonstrations and attempted to exploit young protesters to create unrest. As the Opposition is expected to engage constructively, opposition parties should participate in the ongoing Parliament session and contribute to discussions on issues concerning students instead of escalating political confrontation.
"A protest earns respect through purpose, not through violence. The moment it abandons its cause, it loses its credibility."
