Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi breaks his silence on the youth-led “Cockroach Janta Party” protests triggered by a leaked examination papers scandal. Speaking on social media and in public remarks, Modi says improving youth welfare is a priority and declares that officials involved in harming students will not be spared. Multiple reports say he pledges “stringent punishment” and the creation of fast-track courts to expedite cases against those accused of exam fraud.
The protests follow controversy over leaked answers, which leads to the cancellation of an undergraduate medical entrance examination for about 2.2 million students, according to one outlet. Demonstrations, described as large-scale and youth-driven, take place in New Delhi and then spread to other major cities including Mumbai and Bengaluru. Reports also say clashes occur between protesters and police after thousands take to the streets, and that the movement is among the biggest challenges facing Modi after his re-election for a third term in 2024.
The government’s response focuses on accelerating punishment for alleged corruption connected to the exam leak while addressing anger among students.
