We went to CJP's Delhi protest. Dipke brought the cockroaches, Wangchuk won them over

A protest organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on June 6 attracted an estimated 2,000-2,500 participants, including students, parents, and activists. The demonstration targeted Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, with demands for his resignation over alleged examination irregularities and recruitment-related issues. Founder Abhijeet Dipke led the gathering, but educator-activist Sonam Wangchuk played a pivotal role in consolidating the crowd’s focus. The protest began around 11 am, with participants holding placards, constitutional books, and portraits of BR Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi. Many protesters, including an 83-year-old woman concerned about her grandchildren’s education, endured the Delhi heat under minimal shade. Security forces from the CRPF, SSB, and Delhi Police surrounded the venue, with over a thousand personnel deployed. Initially fragmented, the protest gained cohesion after Wangchuk addressed the crowd, drawing attention away from scattered slogans and speeches by CJP leaders. The dominant chant throughout the day was ‘Dharmendra Pradhan must go,’ reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the education system. A participant traveled from Nagpur, Maharashtra, to join the demonstration, highlighting its regional impact. Despite its success in transitioning from an online movement to a physical protest, challenges remain for the CJP. Organizers acknowledged difficulties in sustaining momentum, particularly in converting social media support into long-term activism. The protest marked the first major street mobilization by the CJP, signaling potential for broader nationwide demonstrations within seven days if demands are not met.