After over a month of protests in India’s national capital, the government’s overtures have intensified. Just a few minutes ago, the national testing agency terminated 47 officials as part of a major crackdown. However, the situation is far from settled, with protesters insisting on Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation.&nbsp;The day saw hectic developments with PM Modi issuing a video at midnight in which he promised that the cabinet will approve tougher penalties for examination-related malpractices and table a bill regarding this in parliament.&nbsp;Nearly an hour later, activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his fast in the presence of Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh.&nbsp;This came after the government agreed to consider suitable compensation for suicide victims of the NEET paper leak.&nbsp;It also gave an assurance on discussing the issue in parliament and not registering cases against peaceful protesters.&nbsp;Breaking the deadlock further, these union ministers also met representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party at a neutral venue.&nbsp;The meeting ended on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to meet again on Saturday.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/neet-protest-pm-modi-promises-tougher-penalties-for-paper-leak-offenders-1784916706532/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/neet-protest-pm-modi-promises-tougher-penalties-for-paper-leak-offenders-1784916706532/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;CJP even claimed that the government sought more time to deliberate on the demand for Pradhan’s ouster.&nbsp;While it was learned that the union cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations-Prevention of Unfair Means Act passed in 2024, the government remained tightlipped on the details.&nbsp;Now, what is the existing legal framework to deal with paper leaks?&nbsp;It is worth noting that the 2024 law was enacted with the precise intention of addressing malpractices in public examinations.&nbsp;All offences under this law are non-bailable. Additionally, a person convicted of resorting to unfair means in exams can be punished with three to five years in jail which can also be extended up to 10 years for organised crimes.&nbsp;The person can also be fined up to Rs 10 lakh, which can go up to Rs 1 crore.&nbsp;As per sources, the cabinet has approved a bill to enhance the quantum of punishment.&nbsp;Amid this, protests surged across the country.&nbsp;For instance, thousands of people gathered at Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park at a protest organised by Shiv Sena-UBT and expressed their anguish at the current state of education in India.&nbsp;Now, it is critical to understand that the NEET issue is not the sole trigger for people joining the protests.&nbsp;Larger concerns about the country’s education system loom large in the minds of youths.&nbsp;One such protester spoke to our correspondent, Dharamjot Kaur, present on the ground.&nbsp;JNU PhD student Chetupally Anvesh said, “The education system is crumbling in our country. When we are saying that we are becoming a vishwaguru, so what kind of vishwaguru you want to be by lathicharging your students, by breaking the spine of your own education system.”&nbsp;However, it seems that some quarters are not able to read the public mood accurately.&nbsp;Multiple public educational institutions such as the University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University faced flak on social media for urging their students to refrain from joining the ongoing protests.&nbsp;The raging protests are also seen as a manifestation of the larger concerns plaguing India’s youth.&nbsp;We are talking about a country where 65% of the population is under 35.&nbsp;One of the top concerns remains unemployment.&nbsp;While the overall unemployment rate was 3.1% in 2025, it was three times higher for the 15-29 age group.&nbsp;A recent survey by Deloitte also revealed the predicament of Gen Zs.&nbsp;For instance, 57% Gen Zs delayed major life decisions due to acute financial pressure. 37% Gen Zs were unable to afford a home.&nbsp;In terms of sheer numbers as well, Gen Zs are poised to play a vital role in the upcoming assembly elections of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh as they constitute over 20% of the population in these states.&nbsp;Their power cannot be understated.&nbsp;Gen Zs majorly contributed to actor-turned-politician Vijay’s stupendous victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly polls.&nbsp;One of the other factors fueling the protests is the alleged use of brute force by the police.&nbsp;Even veteran BJP leader and former Union HRD minister Murli Manohar Joshi condemned the mishandling of young female protesters.&nbsp;It is increasingly clear that protesters are not going to be satisfied by piecemeal actions.&nbsp;The truth is that Gen Zs have become a force to reckon with.&nbsp;Unless the government makes a meaningful effort to address their broad range of concerns, the situation might escalate further.

As protests surged across the country, thousands gathered at Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park and expressed their anguish at the current state of education in India. Larger concerns about the country’s education system loom large in the minds of youths.

After over a month of protests in India’s national capital, the government’s overtures have intensified. Just a few minutes ago, the national testing agency terminated 47 officials as part of a major crackdown. However, the situation is far from settled, with protesters insisting on Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation. The day saw hectic developments with PM Modi issuing a video at midnight in which he promised that the cabinet will approve tougher penalties for examination-related malpractices and table a bill regarding this in parliament. Nearly an hour later, activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his fast in the presence of Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh. This came after the government agreed to consider suitable compensation for suicide victims of the NEET paper leak. It also gave an assurance on discussing the issue in parliament and not registering cases against peaceful protesters. Breaking the deadlock further, these union ministers also met representatives of the Cockroach Janta Party at a neutral venue. The meeting ended on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to meet again on Saturday. https://www.wionews.com/videos/neet-protest-pm-modi-promises-tougher-penalties-for-paper-leak-offenders-1784916706532/embed CJP even claimed that the government sought more time to deliberate on the demand for Pradhan’s ouster. While it was learned that the union cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations-Prevention of Unfair Means Act passed in 2024, the government remained tightlipped on the details. Now, what is the existing legal framework to deal with paper leaks? It is worth noting that the 2024 law was enacted with the precise intention of addressing malpractices in public examinations. All offences under this law are non-bailable. Additionally, a person convicted of resorting to unfair means in exams can be punished with three to five years in jail which can also be extended up to 10 years for organised crimes. The person can also be fined up to Rs 10 lakh, which can go up to Rs 1 crore. As per sources, the cabinet has approved a bill to enhance the quantum of punishment. Amid this, protests surged across the country. For instance, thousands of people gathered at Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park at a protest organised by Shiv Sena-UBT and expressed their anguish at the current state of education in India. Now, it is critical to understand that the NEET issue is not the sole trigger for people joining the protests. Larger concerns about the country’s education system loom large in the minds of youths. One such protester spoke to our correspondent, Dharamjot Kaur, present on the ground. JNU PhD student Chetupally Anvesh said, “The education system is crumbling in our country. When we are saying that we are becoming a vishwaguru, so what kind of vishwaguru you want to be by lathicharging your students, by breaking the spine of your own education system.” However, it seems that some quarters are not able to read the public mood accurately. Multiple public educational institutions such as the University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University faced flak on social media for urging their students to refrain from joining the ongoing protests. The raging protests are also seen as a manifestation of the larger concerns plaguing India’s youth. We are talking about a country where 65% of the population is under 35. One of the top concerns remains unemployment. While the overall unemployment rate was 3.1% in 2025, it was three times higher for the 15-29 age group. A recent survey by Deloitte also revealed the predicament of Gen Zs. For instance, 57% Gen Zs delayed major life decisions due to acute financial pressure. 37% Gen Zs were unable to afford a home. In terms of sheer numbers as well, Gen Zs are poised to play a vital role in the upcoming assembly elections of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh as they constitute over 20% of the population in these states. Their power cannot be understated. Gen Zs majorly contributed to actor-turned-politician Vijay’s stupendous victory in the Tamil Nadu assembly polls. One of the other factors fueling the protests is the alleged use of brute force by the police. Even veteran BJP leader and former Union HRD minister Murli Manohar Joshi condemned the mishandling of young female protesters. It is increasingly clear that protesters are not going to be satisfied by piecemeal actions. The truth is that Gen Zs have become a force to reckon with. Unless the government makes a meaningful effort to address their broad range of concerns, the situation might escalate further.

As protests surged across the country, thousands gathered at Mumbai’s iconic Shivaji Park and expressed their anguish at the current state of education in India. Larger concerns about the country’s education system loom large in the minds of youths.

CJP protests rage despite Wangchuk ending strike, says Pradhan’s resignation ‘non-negotiable’ | Gravitas

Gitanjali J Angmo, wife of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who ended his hunger strike after 26 days of fasting, hit out at critics questioning his decision, saying, "he lies in ICU today, having lost 11 kg," adding that not everyone is qualified to judge a life of selfless service.&nbsp;In a post on X, she advised critics to "first pause to earn ethos of fasting for 26 days for a cause larger than yourself," adding that "he (Wangchuk) lies in the ICU today y, having lost 11 kg, including muscle mass, because he chose sacrifice over comfort".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-minister-ravneet-bittu-resigns-from-cabinet-president-murmu-accepts-resignation-1784906778601">Union minister Ravneet Bittu resigns from cabinet; President Murmu accepts resignation</a>&nbsp;Wangchuk ended his fast earlier today in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after receiving assurances on his demands from the Centre, which include that no legal action will be pursued against non-violent student protesters, discussions in Parliament regarding paper leak accountability, and consideration of compensation for families of affected aspirants.&nbsp;The climate activist joined the protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET UG paper leak and wider concerns regarding the education system. He began his hunger strike on June 28 at Jantar Mantar.However, the CJP clarified that it will continue its protest until the Education Minister resigns, despite Wangchuk breaking his fast.&nbsp;A delegation of the CJP also met Union Minister JP Nadda this afternoon and stated that the talks had been positive on their demands and asked for 24 hours on the issue of Pradhan's resignation.&nbsp;Later today, the Education Ministry terminated 47 officials in the National Testing Agency (NTA), the body responsible for conducting NEET and other competitive exams in the country.&nbsp;The action against the officials followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message to youths, assuring strict action against those responsible for the paper leak, including fast-track trials of the accused and a stricter law to prevent such incidents in the future.&nbsp;Following the announcement, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, amid protests over the NEET examination paper leak.&nbsp;The proposed amendment Bill is likely to be taken up for consideration and passage in Parliament early next week.

Gitanjali J Angmo hit back at critics questioning Sonam Wangchuk's decision to end his 26-day hunger strike, saying he chose "sacrifice over comfort" and is currently in the ICU after losing 11 kg.

Gitanjali J Angmo, wife of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who ended his hunger strike after 26 days of fasting, hit out at critics questioning his decision, saying, "he lies in ICU today, having lost 11 kg," adding that not everyone is qualified to judge a life of selfless service. In a post on X, she advised critics to "first pause to earn ethos of fasting for 26 days for a cause larger than yourself," adding that "he (Wangchuk) lies in the ICU today y, having lost 11 kg, including muscle mass, because he chose sacrifice over comfort". Also Read: Union minister Ravneet Bittu resigns from cabinet; President Murmu accepts resignation Wangchuk ended his fast earlier today in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram after receiving assurances on his demands from the Centre, which include that no legal action will be pursued against non-violent student protesters, discussions in Parliament regarding paper leak accountability, and consideration of compensation for families of affected aspirants. The climate activist joined the protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET UG paper leak and wider concerns regarding the education system. He began his hunger strike on June 28 at Jantar Mantar. However, the CJP clarified that it will continue its protest until the Education Minister resigns, despite Wangchuk breaking his fast. A delegation of the CJP also met Union Minister JP Nadda this afternoon and stated that the talks had been positive on their demands and asked for 24 hours on the issue of Pradhan's resignation. Later today, the Education Ministry terminated 47 officials in the National Testing Agency (NTA), the body responsible for conducting NEET and other competitive exams in the country. The action against the officials followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message to youths, assuring strict action against those responsible for the paper leak, including fast-track trials of the accused and a stricter law to prevent such incidents in the future. Following the announcement, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, amid protests over the NEET examination paper leak. The proposed amendment Bill is likely to be taken up for consideration and passage in Parliament early next week.

Gitanjali J Angmo hit back at critics questioning Sonam Wangchuk's decision to end his 26 day hunger strike, saying he chose "sacrifice over comfort" and is currently in the ICU after losing 11 kg.

'He chose sacrifice over comfort, lies in ICU today': Angmo hits back at Wangchuk's critics

Activist Sonam Wangchuk set a precondition on Wednesday for ending his hunger strike against the NEET paper leak and said he will terminate his fast only when the government assures that protesters will not face any punitive legal action.&nbsp;Wangchuk wrote a letter to Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, thanking them for visiting him and assuring him that the government would consider his earlier demands.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oppn-using-students-as-political-tools-creating-manufactured-sense-of-anger-rajnath-singh-1784716925229">‘Oppn using students as political tools, creating ‘manufactured sense of anger’: Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;“Thank you for visiting me at the hospital last night and for your earnest appeal that I end my fast,” he wrote. Wangchuk specifically mentioned that during the discussion, the ministers assured that the government would positively consider the demands of adequate compensation for the families of students who committed suicide after the paper leak, holding a discussion in Parliament to ensure accountability, including consideration of the resignation of the education minister.&nbsp;“After your visit, roughly 65 Members of Parliament from across political parties have written to me; some have already come, and others are expected this evening. They have all urged me to end my fast, reminding me that I still have much work to do in the service of our nation,” he said, adding, “I agree with them. I want to live. I want to return to my students, to education, and to the work that has defined my life.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-democratic-conduct-nadda-slams-opposition-over-neet-protest-says-centre-ready-to-talk-as-lok-sabha-adjourns-1784710103629">‘Anti-democratic conduct’: Nadda slams Opposition over NEET protest, says ‘Centre ready to talk’ as Lok Sabha adjourns</a>&nbsp;“Therefore, I respectfully request an unequivocal assurance from the government that none of the young protesters will face any punitive or retaliatory legal action for participating in this movement. Their only ‘offence’ has been to raise their voice for a fair and accountable education system. If such an assurance is given, I shall end my fast with faith that the government has heard not only my appeal but also the aspirations of lakhs of young Indians.”&nbsp;He added that in the absence of such an assurance, he will be forced to continue his fast indefinitely.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-s-tvk-bats-for-abolition-of-neet-but-cm-vijay-maintains-silence-over-delhi-protest-1784706268475">Tamil Nadu's TVK bats for 'abolition of NEET' but CM Vijay maintains silence over Delhi protest</a>&nbsp;“The Chalo Sansad march on 20 July 2026 remained very peaceful despite the atrocities and disproportionate use of force by the police. The entire nation and the world witnessed their patience and commitment to democratic protest. I sincerely hope that this faith in democratic institutions is not further undermined by any legal cases, harassment, or vindictive action against those who participated,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;The future of our democracy depends not on how it treats those who agree with it, but on how it treats its young citizens when they dare to speak with courage, hope, and conviction, Wangchuk said, concluding his letter.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk claimed that the Chalo Sansad march on 20 July 2026 remained very peaceful despite the atrocities and disproportionate use of force by the police. He added that there should be no legal cases, harassment, or vindictive action against the protesters.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk set a precondition on Wednesday for ending his hunger strike against the NEET paper leak and said he will terminate his fast only when the government assures that protesters will not face any punitive legal action. Wangchuk wrote a letter to Union ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh, thanking them for visiting him and assuring him that the government would consider his earlier demands. Also Read: ‘Oppn using students as political tools, creating ‘manufactured sense of anger’: Rajnath Singh “Thank you for visiting me at the hospital last night and for your earnest appeal that I end my fast,” he wrote. Wangchuk specifically mentioned that during the discussion, the ministers assured that the government would positively consider the demands of adequate compensation for the families of students who committed suicide after the paper leak, holding a discussion in Parliament to ensure accountability, including consideration of the resignation of the education minister. “After your visit, roughly 65 Members of Parliament from across political parties have written to me; some have already come, and others are expected this evening. They have all urged me to end my fast, reminding me that I still have much work to do in the service of our nation,” he said, adding, “I agree with them. I want to live. I want to return to my students, to education, and to the work that has defined my life.” Also Read: ‘Anti-democratic conduct’: Nadda slams Opposition over NEET protest, says ‘Centre ready to talk’ as Lok Sabha adjourns “Therefore, I respectfully request an unequivocal assurance from the government that none of the young protesters will face any punitive or retaliatory legal action for participating in this movement. Their only ‘offence’ has been to raise their voice for a fair and accountable education system. If such an assurance is given, I shall end my fast with faith that the government has heard not only my appeal but also the aspirations of lakhs of young Indians.” He added that in the absence of such an assurance, he will be forced to continue his fast indefinitely. Also Read: Tamil Nadu's TVK bats for 'abolition of NEET' but CM Vijay maintains silence over Delhi protest “The Chalo Sansad march on 20 July 2026 remained very peaceful despite the atrocities and disproportionate use of force by the police. The entire nation and the world witnessed their patience and commitment to democratic protest. I sincerely hope that this faith in democratic institutions is not further undermined by any legal cases, harassment, or vindictive action against those who participated,” he added. The future of our democracy depends not on how it treats those who agree with it, but on how it treats its young citizens when they dare to speak with courage, hope, and conviction, Wangchuk said, concluding his letter.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk claimed that the Chalo Sansad march on 20 July 2026 remained very peaceful despite the atrocities and disproportionate use of force by the police. He added that there should be no legal cases, harassment, or vindictive action against the protesters.&nbsp;

Sonam Wangchuk puts condition for ending fast, seeks assurance of no punitive action against protesters

A day after thousands of protesters hit the streets in India's capital seeking accountability from the government, protests are no longer limited to Jantar Mantar alone.&nbsp;As activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered day 24, a major political drama unfolded outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence.&nbsp;Key Congress leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan, staged a dharna to seek justice for students.&nbsp;The government sent Union Minister Jitendra Singh to convince Rahul Gandhi to end the dharna, but his attempt was unsuccessful.&nbsp;Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also joined the protest. Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav and other senior leaders were subsequently detained and removed from the protest site by Delhi Police.&nbsp;The leaders were later released after being taken into custody. Rahul Gandhi was taken to Chhatrasal Stadium along with other senior Congress leaders and Akhilesh Yadav, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was taken to Mandir Marg police station.&nbsp;Singh claimed that Gandhi went back on his promise to end the dharna after the government agreed to discuss the NEET issue in Parliament.&nbsp;Instead, the Union Minister accused Gandhi of putting forth a fresh demand for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.&nbsp;Earlier, Gandhi appealed to all patriotic Indians to join his sit-in and openly called for the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah as well.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital to meet protesters who were injured after clashes broke out between them and security forces on Monday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-prepares-fresh-tariffs-as-10-global-levy-set-to-expire-on-july-24-1784648368866">Trump administration prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24</a>&nbsp;While the CJP accused Delhi Police of using brute force against peaceful protesters marching towards Parliament, police alleged that protesters attacked them with stones and other objects.&nbsp;According to Delhi Police, protesters deliberately violated prohibitory orders, attempted to breach barricades, vandalised 15 to 20 government vehicles and damaged public property.&nbsp;More than 118 police personnel and 60 protesters sustained injuries, while 70 protesters were detained. Five FIRs have been registered so far in connection with the violence.&nbsp;Union Health Minister JP Nadda also visited two hospitals to inquire about the condition of injured protesters and reviewed the medical facilities being provided to them.&nbsp;However, Prime Minister Modi addressed the issue of paper leaks at a meeting of MPs belonging to the ruling National Democratic Alliance.&nbsp;According to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, the Prime Minister called for collective national efforts to build a foolproof examination system.&nbsp;In another development, Sonam Wangchuk secured major relief from a Division Bench of the Delhi High Court.&nbsp;Hearing his wife Gitanjali Angmo's petition, the court ordered that he be shifted to Medanta Hospital, his preferred choice.&nbsp;The court also directed a team of doctors to constantly monitor his health condition and allowed Angmo unrestricted access to her husband.&nbsp;While Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that Wangchuk should not be discharged against medical advice, the court refused to get into that aspect.&nbsp;Meanwhile, political leaders continued to extend support to the CJP protest.&nbsp;AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar and his daughter Supriya Sule visited the protest site at Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;Speaking at a rally in Kolkata, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee also extended her support to the protesting students.&nbsp;Although Rahul Gandhi met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla earlier in the day and sought a discussion on the injuries inflicted on protesters and the NEET issue, the Opposition accused the ruling party of stifling its voice, leading to Parliament being adjourned.&nbsp;This raises some key questions.&nbsp;Why isn't the government allowing a debate on issues concerning students? Why did it take this long for the Centre to start a dialogue? Calls for more accountability are growing.

Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition leaders were detained and later released after staging a dharna outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, as Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered its 24th day amid growing protests over the NEET issue.

A day after thousands of protesters hit the streets in India's capital seeking accountability from the government, protests are no longer limited to Jantar Mantar alone. As activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered day 24, a major political drama unfolded outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence. Key Congress leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan, staged a dharna to seek justice for students. The government sent Union Minister Jitendra Singh to convince Rahul Gandhi to end the dharna, but his attempt was unsuccessful. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also joined the protest. Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav and other senior leaders were subsequently detained and removed from the protest site by Delhi Police. The leaders were later released after being taken into custody. Rahul Gandhi was taken to Chhatrasal Stadium along with other senior Congress leaders and Akhilesh Yadav, while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was taken to Mandir Marg police station. Singh claimed that Gandhi went back on his promise to end the dharna after the government agreed to discuss the NEET issue in Parliament. Instead, the Union Minister accused Gandhi of putting forth a fresh demand for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Earlier, Gandhi appealed to all patriotic Indians to join his sit-in and openly called for the resignation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah as well. Earlier in the day, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited Delhi's Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital to meet protesters who were injured after clashes broke out between them and security forces on Monday. Also Read: Trump administration prepares fresh tariffs as 10% global levy set to expire on July 24 While the CJP accused Delhi Police of using brute force against peaceful protesters marching towards Parliament, police alleged that protesters attacked them with stones and other objects. According to Delhi Police, protesters deliberately violated prohibitory orders, attempted to breach barricades, vandalised 15 to 20 government vehicles and damaged public property. More than 118 police personnel and 60 protesters sustained injuries, while 70 protesters were detained. Five FIRs have been registered so far in connection with the violence. Union Health Minister JP Nadda also visited two hospitals to inquire about the condition of injured protesters and reviewed the medical facilities being provided to them. However, Prime Minister Modi addressed the issue of paper leaks at a meeting of MPs belonging to the ruling National Democratic Alliance. According to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, the Prime Minister called for collective national efforts to build a foolproof examination system. In another development, Sonam Wangchuk secured major relief from a Division Bench of the Delhi High Court. Hearing his wife Gitanjali Angmo's petition, the court ordered that he be shifted to Medanta Hospital, his preferred choice. The court also directed a team of doctors to constantly monitor his health condition and allowed Angmo unrestricted access to her husband. While Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that Wangchuk should not be discharged against medical advice, the court refused to get into that aspect. Meanwhile, political leaders continued to extend support to the CJP protest. AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal, NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar and his daughter Supriya Sule visited the protest site at Jantar Mantar. Speaking at a rally in Kolkata, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee also extended her support to the protesting students. Although Rahul Gandhi met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla earlier in the day and sought a discussion on the injuries inflicted on protesters and the NEET issue, the Opposition accused the ruling party of stifling its voice, leading to Parliament being adjourned. This raises some key questions. Why isn't the government allowing a debate on issues concerning students? Why did it take this long for the Centre to start a dialogue? Calls for more accountability are growing.

Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition leaders were detained and later released after staging a dharna outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, as Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike entered its 24th day amid growing protests over the NEET issue.

Rahul Gandhi released after detention during dharna outside PM Modi's residence, Wangchuk's fast enters day 24

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday (July 21, 2026) allowed activist Sonam Wangchuk to be shifted to a hospital of his choice. He is currently on hunger strike in solidarity with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) student protest.A Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia said, "What we propose to do is get him shifted to the hospital of his choice, that is Medanta. He will be treated by the Medanta doctor. All the treatment details at Safdarjung Hospital will be supplied to Medanta immediately and he will be treated there. A panel of doctors to be formed by the director Medanta."&nbsp;Appearing for the Centre and Delhi Police in addition to Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the government had no objection to the decision of shifting Wangchuk to Medanta. "I had interactions with the government also. Medanta is a reputed hospital. The government has no objection if Wangchuk is shifted there, but he may not get discharged against medical advice," Mehta submitted.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-breaks-silence-on-paper-leaks-amid-growing-neet-protests-calls-for-education-minister-s-resignation-1784614265070">'We acted immediately...': Indian PM Modi breaks silence on paper leaks as NEET protest, calls for Education Minister's resignation grows</a><h3>All details to be shared with Medanta Hospital</h3>In response, the Court indicated that Wangchuk would be transferred to Medanta and that all medical data, along with treatment details, from Safdarjung Hospital would be shared with the private hospital. "We propose to get him shifted to Medanta. He will be treated there. All treatment details and reports prepared at Safdarjung will be supplied to Medanta. We will pass orders after lunch," the Bench said. The Court's proposal followed submissions by Wangchuk's counsel, Senior Advocate Akhil Sibal, who cited reports from doctors who had been treating him over several years, arguing that his life was not in immediate danger. Sibal contended that Wangchuk's condition didn't require hospitalisation or close medical supervision, noting that he had already been under observation while at the protest site. Doctors from AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital, however, raised concerns about certain health indicators, including high uric acid levels, a reduced white blood cell count, and low haemoglobin.

Delhi HC allows Sonam Wangchuk, on hunger strike backing CJP student protest, to shift to Medanta hospital. Bench says all Safdarjung treatment records will go to Medanta, where a doctors' panel will oversee his care.

The Delhi High Court on Tuesday (July 21, 2026) allowed activist Sonam Wangchuk to be shifted to a hospital of his choice. He is currently on hunger strike in solidarity with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) student protest. A Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia said, "What we propose to do is get him shifted to the hospital of his choice, that is Medanta. He will be treated by the Medanta doctor. All the treatment details at Safdarjung Hospital will be supplied to Medanta immediately and he will be treated there. A panel of doctors to be formed by the director Medanta." Appearing for the Centre and Delhi Police in addition to Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the government had no objection to the decision of shifting Wangchuk to Medanta. "I had interactions with the government also. Medanta is a reputed hospital. The government has no objection if Wangchuk is shifted there, but he may not get discharged against medical advice," Mehta submitted. Also read: 'We acted immediately...': Indian PM Modi breaks silence on paper leaks as NEET protest, calls for Education Minister's resignation grows All details to be shared with Medanta Hospital In response, the Court indicated that Wangchuk would be transferred to Medanta and that all medical data, along with treatment details, from Safdarjung Hospital would be shared with the private hospital. "We propose to get him shifted to Medanta. He will be treated there. All treatment details and reports prepared at Safdarjung will be supplied to Medanta. We will pass orders after lunch," the Bench said. The Court's proposal followed submissions by Wangchuk's counsel, Senior Advocate Akhil Sibal, who cited reports from doctors who had been treating him over several years, arguing that his life was not in immediate danger. Sibal contended that Wangchuk's condition didn't require hospitalisation or close medical supervision, noting that he had already been under observation while at the protest site. Doctors from AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital, however, raised concerns about certain health indicators, including high uric acid levels, a reduced white blood cell count, and low haemoglobin.

Delhi HC allows Sonam Wangchuk, on hunger strike backing CJP student protest, to shift to Medanta hospital. Bench says all Safdarjung treatment records will go to Medanta, where a doctors' panel will oversee his care.

Delhi High Court grants approval for Sonam Wangchuk to be moved to Medanta Hospital

Activist Sonam Wangchuk announced on Monday (July 20, 2026) that he would continue his hunger strike unless youth leaders are allowed to meet MPs in parliament; otherwise, they should come to visit him instead at the Delhi hospital where he is currently being treated. His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, posted a handwritten note from Wangchuk on social media expressing support for the demonstrators associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical political outfit pushing for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation in connection with the NEET-UG exam paper leak controversy.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Day #23 I&#39;ll continue my fast........... <a href="https://t.co/rfohA8iMkx">pic.twitter.com/rfohA8iMkx</a>&mdash; Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) <a href="https://x.com/Wangchuk66/status/2079190689976647716?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"I will continue my fast (day 23). Seeing the brutality with which peacefully protesting youth are being dealt with, I have decided to continue my fast until the youth leaders are allowed to meet the Parliamentarians at the Sansad Bhawan or I am allowed to meet them here at the hospital," Wangchuk said in the written note, which also contains his signature. "Hopefully, the government will fix the accountability of the education minister before that. I am touched and moved by how the youth have held on to peace despite provocation, and I appeal to the government and the police to resolve the issue by simply allowing the students to present their grievances before parliament today or tomorrow," the activist from Ladakh added.

Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, posted a handwritten note from Wangchuk on social media expressing support for the demonstrators associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk announced on Monday (July 20, 2026) that he would continue his hunger strike unless youth leaders are allowed to meet MPs in parliament; otherwise, they should come to visit him instead at the Delhi hospital where he is currently being treated. His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, posted a handwritten note from Wangchuk on social media expressing support for the demonstrators associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a satirical political outfit pushing for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation in connection with the NEET-UG exam paper leak controversy.

Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, posted a handwritten note from Wangchuk on social media expressing support for the demonstrators associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) for Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

Wangchuk announces to continue his fast until youth leaders allowed to meet Parliamentarians

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