Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Thursday (Jul 23) shut 16 Metro stations across central Delhi citing security reasons as protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak continue to happen alongside Parliament's Monsoon Session. In a post on X, DMRC said Janpath, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat stations had initially been closed until further notice, while interchange facilities would remain available at Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat. It later expanded the list and announced the closure of 16 stations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-should-not-happen-in-a-democracy-shashi-tharoor-slams-detention-of-rahul-gandhi-priyanka-gandhi-after-protest-outside-pm-modi-s-residence-1784684704207">'This should not happen in a democracy': Shashi Tharoor slams detention of Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi after protest outside PM Modi's residence</a><h2>Which metro stations are closed?</h2>In a post on X, DMRC announced that starting at 7:30 am, 16 metro stations "have been closed till further notice". The affected stations are:<ol><li>Lok Kalyan Marg</li><li>Rajiv Chowk</li><li>Patel Chowk</li><li>Ramakrishna Ashram Marg</li><li>Barakhambha Road</li><li>Supreme Court</li><li>Seva Teerth</li><li>Janpath</li><li>Mandi House</li><li>Central Secretariat</li><li>ITO</li><li>Delhi Gate</li><li>Indraprastha</li><li>Khan Market</li><li>Jor Bagh</li><li>Shivaji Stadium</li></ol>DMRC said interchange facilities would continue to remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Service Update Below mentioned Metro stations will be closed from 07:30 AM till further instructions. However, Interchange facility shall remain available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat. 1. Lok Kalyan Marg 2. Rajiv Chowk 3. Patel Chowk 4. Ramakrishna…&mdash; Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) <a href="https://x.com/OfficialDMRC/status/2080101976977866862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shocked-the-conscience-of-nation-congress-moves-adjournment-motions-in-lok-sabha-over-neet-paper-leak-police-action-on-student-protesters-1784694334862">'Shocked the conscience of nation': Congress moves motion in Lok Sabha to force Dharmendra Pradhan's statement and resignation</a>A similar notice was shared a day earlier on Wednesday (Jul 22).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Service Update Below mentioned Metro stations have been closed till further instructions. However, Interchange facility shall remain available at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat. 1. Lok Kalyan Marg 2. Rajiv Chowk 3. Patel Chowk 4. Ramakrishna Ashram Marg 5.…&mdash; Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) <a href="https://x.com/OfficialDMRC/status/2079808079563301229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Police action against peaceful protest under scanner</h2>This comes as a peaceful protest and march arranged by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), a student-led movement that started as a satirical movement, turned violent. Visuals from the July 20 marched from Jantar Mantar to Parliament in New Delhi show police using lathi charge and tear gas to disrupt the march towards Parliament, demanding accountability over the alleged examination irregularities. Reports suggest hundreds of protesting students were injured in what has been labelled "police brutality" by Indian opposition parties. Members of the Delhi Police and the RAF were also reportedly injured in the chaos.<h2>Priyanka Gandhi attacks Centre over police action</h2>Opposition MP and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday slammed the police action against students protesting over the alleged paper leak. Accusing the Centre of refusing to discuss the issue in Parliament, she said, "We are all asking for a discussion. There are problems and major issues with the education policy. Yet, you are unwilling to discuss it; instead, you are using tear gas on the students and beating them up. For what? They are our children."Her remarks came as both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed repeated disruptions over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and the alleged embezzlement of donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya.The Opposition demanded discussions on both issues, leading to repeated adjournments before both Houses were finally adjourned for the day.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has temporarily closed 16 Metro stations across central Delhi citing security reasons, as protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak coincided with the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Thursday (Jul 23) shut 16 Metro stations across central Delhi citing security reasons as protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak continue to happen alongside Parliament's Monsoon Session. In a post on X, DMRC said Janpath, Rajiv Chowk, Patel Chowk and Central Secretariat stations had initially been closed until further notice, while interchange facilities would remain available at Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat. It later expanded the list and announced the closure of 16 stations. Also read | 'This should not happen in a democracy': Shashi Tharoor slams detention of Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi after protest outside PM Modi's residence Which metro stations are closed? In a post on X, DMRC announced that starting at 7:30 am, 16 metro stations "have been closed till further notice". The affected stations are: 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 DMRC said interchange facilities would continue to remain operational at Rajiv Chowk, Mandi House and Central Secretariat.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has temporarily closed 16 Metro stations across central Delhi citing security reasons, as protests over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak coincided with the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Delhi Metro shuts 16 stations for a second day as NEET-UG protest continues at Jantar Mantar: Full list of affected routes

Amid uproar over plainclothes policemen carrying out a lathi charge on protestors at the ongoing Jantar Mantar protest, the Delhi Police, as per reports, has now instructed all personnel to report for duty only in uniform. This comes as the July 20 march to Parliament, organised by the Congress Janta Party, turned violent, with videos showing police personnel carrying out a lathi charge on what was supposed to be a peaceful protest against the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. The resulting altercation has left both demonstrators and security personnel injured.The protest continues at Jantar Mantar, with students demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.<h2>Videos of plainclothes personnel trigger criticism</h2>The brutal police action has drawn widespread criticism after multiple videos circulated on social media appeared to show men in civilian clothes carrying police lathis and using force against protesters. Other videos showed some uniformed personnel without visible name tags.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jantar Mantar: men in civvies walking the street with sticks. Students ask who they are. No answer. Riot police standing nearby. Police? Another agency? Someone private? That’s not a detail you shrug off. This needs a real investigation, not silence. <a href="https://t.co/GX8vEnehdt">pic.twitter.com/GX8vEnehdt</a>&mdash; Dilip Ray 🇮🇳 (@dilipray) <a href="https://x.com/dilipray/status/2079453577022677059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The visuals prompted questions over the identity of those involved in the crowd-control operation and whether plainclothes personnel were authorised to carry out policing duties.According to The Indian Express, Delhi Police Headquarters issued an internal message late Tuesday night directing all units to ensure that officers deployed at Jantar Mantar report only in police uniform and not in civilian attire.Delhi Police has not publicly responded to allegations specifically concerning plainclothes personnel using police batons.<h2>Police say 'mild force' was used after barricades were breached</h2>According to an internal report prepared by the New Delhi district police, officials maintained that "mild force" was used to restore order after protesters allegedly breached multiple security barricades.A police source told The Indian Express that authorities had erected three layers of barricades at Tolstoy Marg, Sansad Marg and near Transport Bhawan to prevent protesters from entering the high-security zone.The source said protesters allegedly broke through the first barricade at Tolstoy Marg around 10.30 am before breaching a second barricade on Sansad Marg.With only the barricade near Transport Bhawan left between the crowd and the high-security zone, security personnel used force to disperse the protesters, the source told the publication.Police said clashes were reported at four locations: Sansad Marg, the Rail Bhawan roundabout, Jantar Mantar and the Connaught Place Outer Circle-Janpath stretch.<h2>Cockroach Janata Party questions role of plainclothes personnel</h2>Following the clashes, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) questioned the role of the men seen in civilian clothes carrying lathis.In a post on social media, the party asked, "Who are these lathi-armed goons in plainclothes? Who have you hired to beat us up?"Delhi Police has been responding to several allegations made by protesters but has not publicly addressed the specific claim regarding men in plain clothes using police batons.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Plainclothes officers carrying lathis spotted excitedly going to beat up their next targets. No uniform, no ID cards, just armed to protect Dharmendra Pradhan’s kursi. <a href="https://t.co/ZawSuk78x8">pic.twitter.com/ZawSuk78x8</a>&mdash; Cockroach is Back (@Cockroachisback) <a href="https://x.com/Cockroachisback/status/2079207307913670816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Is it legal for police to operate in plain clothes during crowd control?</h2>The incident has also sparked debate over whether police personnel engaged in crowd-control duties should be identifiable.While certain policing functions such as intelligence gathering or undercover operations may require officers to conceal their identity, routine law-and-order operations are governed by statutory procedures and judicial principles.Public order is governed under Chapter XI of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), covering Sections 148 to 160. While the law does not expressly require police officers or armed personnel to display identification during crowd-control operations, legal experts argue that only a magistrate or a "police officer" has the statutory authority to order an unlawful assembly to disperse. Notably, the BNSS itself does not explicitly state whether officers must wear uniforms during law-and-order operations.

The directive comes after viral videos showed men in civilian clothes wielding police batons during the ongoing NEET protest crackdown at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Is that legal? All you need to know.

Amid uproar over plainclothes policemen carrying out a lathi charge on protestors at the ongoing Jantar Mantar protest, the Delhi Police, as per reports, has now instructed all personnel to report for duty only in uniform. This comes as the July 20 march to Parliament, organised by the Congress Janta Party, turned violent, with videos showing police personnel carrying out a lathi charge on what was supposed to be a peaceful protest against the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. The resulting altercation has left both demonstrators and security personnel injured. The protest continues at Jantar Mantar, with students demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Videos of plainclothes personnel trigger criticism The brutal police action has drawn widespread criticism after multiple videos circulated on social media appeared to show men in civilian clothes carrying police lathis and using force against protesters. Other videos showed some uniformed personnel without visible name tags.

The directive comes after viral videos showed men in civilian clothes wielding police batons during the ongoing NEET protest crackdown at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar. Is that legal? All you need to know.

Plainclothes police, missing nametags: Delhi Police orders officers to be in uniform after viral lathi charge videos spark outrage

Protests demanding education reforms and action over NEET exam issues continue in New Delhi as opposition leaders and students intensify their demonstrations. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, joined a protest outside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence, raising concerns over alleged exam paper leaks and the treatment of protesting students. Several opposition leaders were briefly detained by police and later released.

NEET protest escalates in Delhi | Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi detained during education reform protest

The Congress party on Wednesday (Jul 22) stepped up its attack on the BJP-led Centre government over the alleged NEET paper leak and police action against protesting students, with two of its MPs moving separate adjournment motions in the Lok Sabha demanding an immediate discussion on the issues.<h2>Dharmendra Pradhan must resign</h2>Congress MP and General Secretary K C Venugopal sought an adjournment motion calling for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to make a suo motu statement in the House explaining the repeated examination paper leak incidents during his tenure. In his notice, Venugopal said Pradhan should take "moral and constitutional responsibility" for the alleged failures in the examination system and resign from office.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-should-not-happen-in-a-democracy-shashi-tharoor-slams-detention-of-rahul-gandhi-priyanka-gandhi-after-protest-outside-pm-modi-s-residence-1784684704207">'This should not happen in a democracy': Shashi Tharoor slams detention of Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi after protest outside PM Modi's residence</a>"The Government must discuss the NEET and CBSE Issue, examination-related suicides and the crisis in the education sector. Withdrawal of all cases against the students and youth who were peacefully protesting yesterday," he wrote.Venugopal also alleged that despite the scale of the alleged paper leak scam, no significant action had been taken against those responsible."Despite the magnitude of this fraud, not a single meaningful arrest or criminal action has been taken against the responsible individuals, coaching syndicates, or officials," he said.He further alleged that Pradhan "continues to hold office without any accountability being fixed, in gross violation of the basic principle of ministerial responsibility."<h2>Hibi Eden seeks discussion on police action</h2>In a separate adjournment motion, Congress MP Hibi Eden sought a discussion on the police action against students who were protesting near Parliament.The Ernakulam MP said Parliament could not remain a "silent spectator" to reports that thousands of students were subjected to lathicharge and tear gas while demonstrating against what they described as shortcomings in the country's education and examination system.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/preity-zinta-backs-sonam-wangchuk-and-cjp-student-protests-urges-activist-to-end-fast-1784655445661">Preity Zinta backs Sonam Wangchuk and CJP student protests</a>According to Eden, the students were seeking justice through peaceful and democratic means but were allegedly met with disproportionate force by the Delhi Police. "The reported actions raise serious concerns regarding the protection of the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India, including the freedoms of speech, peaceful assembly, and expression," he wrote. Eden added that the manner in which the protest was handled had "shocked the conscience of the nation" and was inconsistent with the democratic values that Parliament is duty-bound to uphold.The adjournment notices come amid the Opposition's continuing demand for accountability over alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak controversy.<h2>Opposition protests with black clothes</h2>Opposition MPs staged a protest in black clothes against the government on the Parliament premises. Among those present were the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi; Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav; and Priyanka Gandhi. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that students have legitimate demands and are fighting for their rights. "The education budget is Rs 1.4 lakh crore, but you are waiving Rs 16 lakh crore in loans for Adani and Ambani. Students are facing genuine hardships and demanding change. Paper leaks are happening repeatedly. There is nothing undemocratic about peaceful protest, but what is happening with students and in Parliament is undemocratic," she said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Congress MPs K.C. Venugopal and Hibi Eden have moved separate adjournment motions in the Lok Sabha, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the alleged NEET paper leak and seeking a discussion on the police action against protesting students.

The Congress party on Wednesday (Jul 22) stepped up its attack on the BJP-led Centre government over the alleged NEET paper leak and police action against protesting students, with two of its MPs moving separate adjournment motions in the Lok Sabha demanding an immediate discussion on the issues. Dharmendra Pradhan must resign Congress MP and General Secretary K C Venugopal sought an adjournment motion calling for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to make a suo motu statement in the House explaining the repeated examination paper leak incidents during his tenure. In his notice, Venugopal said Pradhan should take "moral and constitutional responsibility" for the alleged failures in the examination system and resign from office. Also read | 'This should not happen in a democracy': Shashi Tharoor slams detention of Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi after protest outside PM Modi's residence "The Government must discuss the NEET and CBSE Issue, examination-related suicides and the crisis in the education sector. Withdrawal of all cases against the students and youth who were peacefully protesting yesterday," he wrote. Venugopal also alleged that despite the scale of the alleged paper leak scam, no significant action had been taken against those responsible. "Despite the magnitude of this fraud, not a single meaningful arrest or criminal action has been taken against the responsible individuals, coaching syndicates, or officials," he said. He further alleged that Pradhan "continues to hold office without any accountability being fixed, in gross violation of the basic principle of ministerial responsibility." Hibi Eden seeks discussion on police action In a separate adjournment motion, Congress MP Hibi Eden sought a discussion on the police action against students who were protesting near Parliament. The Ernakulam MP said Parliament could not remain a "silent spectator" to reports that thousands of students were subjected to lathicharge and tear gas while demonstrating against what they described as shortcomings in the country's education and examination system. Also read | Preity Zinta backs Sonam Wangchuk and CJP student protests According to Eden, the students were seeking justice through peaceful and democratic means but were allegedly met with disproportionate force by the Delhi Police. "The reported actions raise serious concerns regarding the protection of the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution of India, including the freedoms of speech, peaceful assembly, and expression," he wrote. Eden added that the manner in which the protest was handled had "shocked the conscience of the nation" and was inconsistent with the democratic values that Parliament is duty-bound to uphold. The adjournment notices come amid the Opposition's continuing demand for accountability over alleged examination irregularities and the NEET paper leak controversy. Opposition protests with black clothes Opposition MPs staged a protest in black clothes against the government on the Parliament premises. Among those present were the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi; Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav; and Priyanka Gandhi. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that students have legitimate demands and are fighting for their rights. "The education budget is Rs 1.4 lakh crore, but you are waiving Rs 16 lakh crore in loans for Adani and Ambani. Students are facing genuine hardships and demanding change. Paper leaks are happening repeatedly. There is nothing undemocratic about peaceful protest, but what is happening with students and in Parliament is undemocratic," she said.

Congress MPs K.C. Venugopal and Hibi Eden have moved separate adjournment motions in the Lok Sabha, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the alleged NEET paper leak and seeking a discussion on the police action against protesting students.

'Shocked the conscience of nation': Congress moves motion in Lok Sabha to force Dharmendra Pradhan's statement and resignation

The right to peaceful protest plays a significant role in Indian democracy, serving as a vital mechanism for citizens to express dissent and hold institutions accountable without violence. However, under the legal framework of India, the right to demonstrate is not unfettered and must be exercised within specific constitutional bounds. The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media. The members of CJP formed a group and started their demonstration at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The development unfolded after the NEET UG paper was leaked after the examination was held in May this year. Since then, several students and their families have demanded greater accountability from the government, as at least 21 students have died by suicide after the paper leak. The re-test was conducted late last month.<h3>Is protesting a fundamental right in India?</h3>The Constitution of India does not explicitly mention a standalone "Right to Protest." Still, the Supreme Court has repeatedly held that it is an implicit Fundamental Right derived from Article 19: Article 19(1)(a) guarantees the Freedom of Speech and Expression, enabling citizens to publicly express dissent and communicate grievances. And Article 19(1)(b) guarantees the right to Assemble Peaceably and Without Arms, laying the legal foundation for rallies and public meetings.&nbsp;This right is not absolute. Under Article 19(2) and Article 19(3), the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, public order, decency, or morality and preventing incitement to an offence or causing public nuisance. However, protesters do not have the right to block public thoroughfares indefinitely or cause public nuisance. In response, authorities can enforce regulatory measures (like Section 144) to prevent breaches of peace or imminent danger.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-amit-shah-must-resign-says-rahul-gandhi-holds-protest-outside-pm-s-residence-along-with-several-congress-leaders-1784631100893">Modi, Amit Shah must resign, says Rahul Gandhi, holds protest outside PM's residence along with several Congress leaders</a><h3>Distinction between peaceful protest and Civil Disobedience</h3><h3>Peaceful Protest</h3>In a peaceful protest, people are protected under the Constitutional Right Article 19, which operates within the boundaries of the law (e.g., getting police permissions, gathering at designated spots, shouting slogans peacefully). In this development, the State/Police are constitutionally bound to facilitate and protect the gathering, subject to public order safety.<h3>Civil Disobedience</h3>This development involves the deliberate and intentional breaking of specific laws or orders (e.g., defying curfew, refusing taxes, blocking railways) as a form of moral resistance. It involves a conscientious breach of a rule to highlight an injustice, with the protester accepting the legal consequences.<h3>Why is police permission required?&nbsp;</h3>In the landmark Himat Lal K. Shah v. Commissioner of Police (1973) case, the Supreme Court ruled that requiring prior police permission to hold public meetings on public streets does not abridge the fundamental right of assembly. Instead, it acts as a regulatory measure: To prevent total gridlock, manage crowd density, and ensure emergency services (ambulances, fire engines) remain unaffected, the next step is to assess threat perception and prevent clashes between rival political or social groups.&nbsp;Organisers must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or formal permit detailing the rally route, duration, and expected headcount from the relevant District Magistrate (DM) or Commissioner of Police.<h3>Can police detain protesters?</h3>Yes, Indian police can legally detain peaceful protesters under specific circumstances, even though the right to assemble peacefully is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Preventive Detention: Under criminal procedure codes, police officers can detain individuals if there is a credible apprehension that they might commit a cognisable offence or disrupt public peace.&nbsp;Unlawful Assembly: If a protest proceeds without valid permissions or continues after a dispersal order, participants can be detained for joining or continuing in an unlawful assembly.&nbsp;Procedural Guarantees: Any detained protester retains fundamental protections under Article 22, including the right to know the grounds of arrest, consult a legal practitioner, and be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours.<h3>Under what circumstances can prohibitory orders be imposed?</h3>Prohibitory orders restrict public assembly and are primarily issued under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) (or corresponding provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 / BNSS).&nbsp;Circumstances for imposition include:&nbsp;A District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or authorised Executive Magistrate can issue prohibitory orders when there is: An immediate, urgent threat of nuisance or apprehended danger and a risk to human life, health, or safety.<h3>Is there a legal right to protest specifically at Jantar Mantar?</h3>Yes, but subject to strict executive regulations. Historically, Jantar Mantar in New Delhi became a core designated protest zone. However, the law does not guarantee the right to protest at any location or without permission. To protest at any location in India, organisers must typically submit a formal application or letter to the local Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) several days in advance detailing the purpose, expected headcount, and duration of the demonstration.&nbsp;In 2017, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a total ban on all protests there due to severe noise pollution and disturbance to nearby residents. &nbsp;

The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media. 

The right to peaceful protest plays a significant role in Indian democracy, serving as a vital mechanism for citizens to express dissent and hold institutions accountable without violence. However, under the legal framework of India, the right to demonstrate is not unfettered and must be exercised within specific constitutional bounds. The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media. The members of CJP formed a group and started their demonstration at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The development unfolded after the NEET UG paper was leaked after the examination was held in May this year. Since then, several students and their families have demanded greater accountability from the government, as at least 21 students have died by suicide after the paper leak. The re-test was conducted late last month. Is protesting a fundamental right in India? The Constitution of India does not explicitly mention a standalone "Right to Protest." Still, the Supreme Court has repeatedly held that it is an implicit Fundamental Right derived from Article 19: Article 19(1)(a) guarantees the Freedom of Speech and Expression, enabling citizens to publicly express dissent and communicate grievances. And Article 19(1)(b) guarantees the right to Assemble Peaceably and Without Arms, laying the legal foundation for rallies and public meetings. This right is not absolute. Under Article 19(2) and Article 19(3), the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, public order, decency, or morality and preventing incitement to an offence or causing public nuisance. However, protesters do not have the right to block public thoroughfares indefinitely or cause public nuisance. In response, authorities can enforce regulatory measures (like Section 144) to prevent breaches of peace or imminent danger. Also read: Modi, Amit Shah must resign, says Rahul Gandhi, holds protest outside PM's residence along with several Congress leaders Distinction between peaceful protest and Civil Disobedience Peaceful Protest In a peaceful protest, people are protected under the Constitutional Right Article 19, which operates within the boundaries of the law (e.g., getting police permissions, gathering at designated spots, shouting slogans peacefully). In this development, the State/Police are constitutionally bound to facilitate and protect the gathering, subject to public order safety. Civil Disobedience This development involves the deliberate and intentional breaking of specific laws or orders (e.g., defying curfew, refusing taxes, blocking railways) as a form of moral resistance. It involves a conscientious breach of a rule to highlight an injustice, with the protester accepting the legal consequences. Why is police permission required? In the landmark Himat Lal K. Shah v. Commissioner of Police (1973) case, the Supreme Court ruled that requiring prior police permission to hold public meetings on public streets does not abridge the fundamental right of assembly. Instead, it acts as a regulatory measure: To prevent total gridlock, manage crowd density, and ensure emergency services (ambulances, fire engines) remain unaffected, the next step is to assess threat perception and prevent clashes between rival political or social groups. Organisers must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or formal permit detailing the rally route, duration, and expected headcount from the relevant District Magistrate (DM) or Commissioner of Police. Can police detain protesters? Yes, Indian police can legally detain peaceful protesters under specific circumstances, even though the right to assemble peacefully is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution. Preventive Detention: Under criminal procedure codes, police officers can detain individuals if there is a credible apprehension that they might commit a cognisable offence or disrupt public peace. Unlawful Assembly: If a protest proceeds without valid permissions or continues after a dispersal order, participants can be detained for joining or continuing in an unlawful assembly. Procedural Guarantees: Any detained protester retains fundamental protections under Article 22, including the right to know the grounds of arrest, consult a legal practitioner, and be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours. Under what circumstances can prohibitory orders be imposed? Prohibitory orders restrict public assembly and are primarily issued under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) (or corresponding provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 / BNSS). Circumstances for imposition include: A District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or authorised Executive Magistrate can issue prohibitory orders when there is: An immediate, urgent threat of nuisance or apprehended danger and a risk to human life, health, or safety. Is there a legal right to protest specifically at Jantar Mantar? Yes, but subject to strict executive regulations. Historically, Jantar Mantar in New Delhi became a core designated protest zone. However, the law does not guarantee the right to protest at any location or without permission. To protest at any location in India, organisers must typically submit a formal application or letter to the local Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) several days in advance detailing the purpose, expected headcount, and duration of the demonstration. In 2017, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a total ban on all protests there due to severe noise pollution and disturbance to nearby residents.

The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media.&nbsp;

Is protesting fundamental right in India? Decoding all rights and restrictions as per the law: EXPLAINED

The student protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is what everyone is talking about right now across the country. While several celebrities have spoken up in support of the students, a few, including veteran actress Shabana Azmi and actor Prakash Raj have also taken part. But amid all this, a video of veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has been circulating online with claims that he secretly took part in the protest. But was he in the capital? Here's what the truth is.<h3>Viral video of Naseeruddin Shah and his son</h3>&nbsp;Social media is a place where differentiating truth, falsehood, and fake news has become a challenge, and figuring out what to believe and what not to believe has always been difficult. A new video that has gone viral claims that Shah was at Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/salman-khan-s-maatrubhumi-to-release-in-2026-but-new-poster-hints-at-this-major-change-1784625193135">Maatrubhumi to release in 2026, but new poster hints at THIS major change</a>&nbsp;Sharing the video, one user wrote,''Amidst the ongoing student movement at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Naseeruddin Shah arrived with his sons Imad and Vivan Shah. He did not give any public statement, simply standing quietly leaning against a pillar and observing the protest.''

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">दिल्ली के जंतर-मंतर पर चल रहे छात्र आंदोलन के बीच नसीरुद्दीन शाह अपने बेटों इमाद और विवान शाह के साथ पहुंचे। उन्होंने कोई सार्वजनिक बयान नहीं दिया, बस शांत भाव से खंभे के सहारे खड़े होकर प्रदर्शन देखा। पुलिस कार्रवाई के बाद बिखरते छात्रों को भी गंभीरता से देखा। उनकी मौजूदगी ने… <a href="https://t.co/Ogg2XJ8k2Q">pic.twitter.com/Ogg2XJ8k2Q</a>&mdash; Lakhan meena (@LakhanmeenaIND) <a href="https://x.com/LakhanmeenaIND/status/2079184294749311132?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Another user wrote,''Thank God there are still such stars in Bollywood today!‘’&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/shabana-azmi-health-deteriorates-at-cjp-protest-suffers-dizziness-report-1784604723878">Shabana Azmi health deteriorated at CJP protest, suffered dizziness: Report</a>&nbsp;Shah’s video has gone viral, with netizens claiming it’s from Jantar Mantar. The clip that has been widely circulating shows Naseeruddin with his son, Vivaan Shah. They are standing on the side of the road as people walk past them. Seeing them standing casually, many thought that the actor, along with his two sons, had taken part in the protest.<h3>Was Naseeruddin Shah in New Delhi for the Jantar Mantar student protest?</h3>The video was shared with claims that Shah and his sons were silently protesting over the NEET paper leak controversy. But as the video went viral, the claim was found to be false.&nbsp;Shah was not in Delhi and had not taken part in the protest in Delhi. The viral video was reportedly shot in Mumbai's Colaba, where the actor attended a theatre event. The morphed video has been edited in a way that it misleads the watcher, giving an idea that the location is a protest site. &nbsp;&nbsp;As of now, &nbsp;Naseeruddin Shah and his sons have not reacted to this viral claim.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not Shah, but several of celebrities have reacted to the protest, which is against the NEET paper leak and demands the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Veteran star Shabana event took part in the Parliament March on July 20.

A video has gone viral featuring veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah and his son Vivaan Shah standing on the corner of the road. The clip has been shared with the claim that the father and son attended the student protest in Delhi. 

The student protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi is what everyone is talking about right now across the country. While several celebrities have spoken up in support of the students, a few, including veteran actress Shabana Azmi and actor Prakash Raj have also taken part. But amid all this, a video of veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has been circulating online with claims that he secretly took part in the protest. But was he in the capital? Here's what the truth is. Viral video of Naseeruddin Shah and his son Social media is a place where differentiating truth, falsehood, and fake news has become a challenge, and figuring out what to believe and what not to believe has always been difficult. A new video that has gone viral claims that Shah was at Jantar Mantar. Also read: Maatrubhumi to release in 2026, but new poster hints at THIS major change Sharing the video, one user wrote,''Amidst the ongoing student movement at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, Naseeruddin Shah arrived with his sons Imad and Vivan Shah. He did not give any public statement, simply standing quietly leaning against a pillar and observing the protest.''

A video has gone viral featuring veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah and his son Vivaan Shah standing on the corner of the road. The clip has been shared with the claim that the father and son attended the student protest in Delhi.&nbsp;

Fact Check: Was Naseeruddin Shah in New Delhi for the Jantar Mantar student protest?

Mumbai Police have registered eight First Information Reports (FIRs) across the city in connection with protests held in solidarity with the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)&nbsp;movement at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, naming more than 900 people as accused.&nbsp;According to police, the largest case has been registered at Shivaji Park Police Station, where over 600 protesters have been booked. The remaining FIRs have been lodged at other police stations covering different protest locations, taking the total number of accused to more than 900.&nbsp;The Mumbai demonstrations were organised as a show of support for the youth-led CJP movement, which has been staging a prolonged protest at Jantar Mantar&nbsp;in New Delhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;The movement, led by Abhijeet Dipke and backed by activist Sonam Wangchuk, began over allegations of irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak, and has since expanded into a wider campaign demanding accountability, education reforms, greater employment opportunities and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-grants-approval-for-sonam-wangchuk-to-be-moved-to-medanta-hospital-1784622590354">Delhi High Court grants approval for Sonam Wangchuk to be moved to Medanta Hospital</a><h3>Protests at multiple locations across Mumbai</h3>During the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the group called for a "Sansad Chalo" march, leading to clashes between protesters and Delhi Police on Monday. Police said the Mumbai gatherings were held despite prohibitory orders being in force. The FIRs invoke provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)&nbsp;and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)&nbsp;relating to unlawful assembly, disobedience of orders issued by public servants and obstruction of officials while performing their duties.&nbsp;Officials said protests were reported from multiple locations across Mumbai, with the largest gathering taking place at Shivaji Park. Additional police personnel were deployed across sensitive areas to maintain law and order and regulate traffic.&nbsp;Despite the large turnout, no major incidents of violence were reported in Mumbai. Police said notices will be issued to those named in the FIRs, while investigators continue to examine CCTV footage, drone visuals and videos recorded during the demonstrations to identify additional participants. The investigation remains underway, and officials have indicated that further legal action could follow based on the evidence collected.

The Mumbai demonstrations were organised as a show of support for the youth-led CJP movement, which has been staging a prolonged protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. 

Mumbai Police have registered eight First Information Reports (FIRs) across the city in connection with protests held in solidarity with the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, naming more than 900 people as accused. According to police, the largest case has been registered at Shivaji Park Police Station, where over 600 protesters have been booked. The remaining FIRs have been lodged at other police stations covering different protest locations, taking the total number of accused to more than 900. The Mumbai demonstrations were organised as a show of support for the youth-led CJP movement, which has been staging a prolonged protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The movement, led by Abhijeet Dipke and backed by activist Sonam Wangchuk, began over allegations of irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak, and has since expanded into a wider campaign demanding accountability, education reforms, greater employment opportunities and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Also read: Delhi High Court grants approval for Sonam Wangchuk to be moved to Medanta Hospital Protests at multiple locations across Mumbai During the Monsoon Session of Parliament, the group called for a "Sansad Chalo" march, leading to clashes between protesters and Delhi Police on Monday. Police said the Mumbai gatherings were held despite prohibitory orders being in force. The FIRs invoke provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) relating to unlawful assembly, disobedience of orders issued by public servants and obstruction of officials while performing their duties. Officials said protests were reported from multiple locations across Mumbai, with the largest gathering taking place at Shivaji Park. Additional police personnel were deployed across sensitive areas to maintain law and order and regulate traffic. Despite the large turnout, no major incidents of violence were reported in Mumbai. Police said notices will be issued to those named in the FIRs, while investigators continue to examine CCTV footage, drone visuals and videos recorded during the demonstrations to identify additional participants. The investigation remains underway, and officials have indicated that further legal action could follow based on the evidence collected.

The Mumbai demonstrations were organised as a show of support for the youth-led CJP movement, which has been staging a prolonged protest at Jantar Mantar&nbsp;in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Mumbai police book over 900 people over CJP protest; eight FIRs registered across city

New Delhi witnessed massive demonstration and clashes on Monday (Jul 20) as students and activists attempted to march to the Indian Parliament demanding accountability on the examination paper leaks in the country. Delhi Police resorted to firing tear gas and beating protesters with sticks and plastic batons as authorities tried to disperse thousands of supporters who gathered on the appeal of a satirical online group Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The group's members have been in a sit-in protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar since a month and have been demanding teh resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.&nbsp;As the march turned violent leading to clashes with police, official record stated that over 100 were injured. Additionally, 118 police personnel were also injured, including senior officers such as the Special Commissioner of Police and Joint Commissioner of Police. At least 38 of the injured protesters were taken to the Lady Hardinge Medical College and around 65 were taken to the Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Those hurt suffered fractures, eye irritations from tear gas, and head injuries. In addition to the injured students, over 70 protesters were detained during the clash. &nbsp;The demonstration, the biggest seen in the Indian capital in years.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-come-to-us-cjp-resumes-protest-after-parliament-march-violence-calls-meeting-with-nadda-waste-of-time-1784595705612">CJP resumes protest, calls meeting with Nadda ‘waste of time’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">During lathi charge, police are expected to target the lower body, yet in this video, some can be seen striking students on their upper bodies, with a few even appearing to hit their heads. That is unacceptable and should be called out. <a href="https://t.co/wvqHSVxUjV">pic.twitter.com/wvqHSVxUjV</a>&mdash; DeadLandAlpha (@ReddyVerity) <a href="https://x.com/ReddyVerity/status/2079249077431337295?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What Delhi Police said?</h2>While videos on social media showed police using batons on the students and firing tear gas in areas adjoining the Parliament, including Jantar Mantar, Rafi Marg, Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, in an official statement, Delhi Police said that it was the students that turned unruly. Delhi Police said the protesters refused to disperse despite repeated warnings and violated prohibitory orders that were in force in the New Delhi area. Joint Commissioner of Police (Joint CP) of the Central Range, Madhur Verma, said, “There was an unlawful assembly that had to be dealt with; there were some incidents of stone-pelting, and the Delhi Police have detained some protesters. Appropriate action is being taken." The police said that the protest turned “unruly, aggressive and violent."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wangchuk-announces-to-continue-fasting-until-youth-leaders-allowed-to-meet-parliamentarians-1784554504577">Wangchuk announces to continue his fast until youth leaders allowed to meet Parliamentarians</a>&nbsp;Earlier on Jul 20 also, in a statement, Delhi Police said that there have been no sporadic use of violence/detentions at Jantar Mantar. "The protest is being handled professionally. All are requested not to fall pray to any rumour/ misgivings, and, to assist Delhi Police in maintaining peace and public order at and around the site," the police said. However, videos on social media showed police chasing the protesters, and hitting them.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Black day for our Democracy Brutal Lathi charge on our students who are demanding for their rights <a href="https://t.co/A6hkURXMy1">pic.twitter.com/A6hkURXMy1</a>&mdash; Dr. SP (@sphavisha) <a href="https://x.com/sphavisha/status/2079188841546576361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Thousands of CJP supporters resumed protests after clashes near Parliament, with Delhi Police saying the demonstration turned "unruly" and left 118 personnel injured. The group rejected JP Nadda's outreach as "a waste of time" and vowed to continue demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation

New Delhi witnessed massive demonstration and clashes on Monday (Jul 20) as students and activists attempted to march to the Indian Parliament demanding accountability on the examination paper leaks in the country. Delhi Police resorted to firing tear gas and beating protesters with sticks and plastic batons as authorities tried to disperse thousands of supporters who gathered on the appeal of a satirical online group Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). The group's members have been in a sit-in protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar since a month and have been demanding teh resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. As the march turned violent leading to clashes with police, official record stated that over 100 were injured. Additionally, 118 police personnel were also injured, including senior officers such as the Special Commissioner of Police and Joint Commissioner of Police. At least 38 of the injured protesters were taken to the Lady Hardinge Medical College and around 65 were taken to the Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital. Those hurt suffered fractures, eye irritations from tear gas, and head injuries. In addition to the injured students, over 70 protesters were detained during the clash. The demonstration, the biggest seen in the Indian capital in years. Also Read: CJP resumes protest, calls meeting with Nadda ‘waste of time’

Thousands of CJP supporters resumed protests after clashes near Parliament, with Delhi Police saying the demonstration turned "unruly" and left 118 personnel injured. The group rejected JP Nadda's outreach as "a waste of time" and vowed to continue demanding Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation

'Protesters turned unruly...': Delhi Police say over 118 personnel injured during Parliament march chaos, FIR registered

A day after Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s Parliament march plans ended in chaos and clashes, they have resumed their protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar. While they alleged that Delhi Police dismantled their stage, they were supported by students and they renewed the call for resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This came a day after they met Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda and submitted their written demands. Speaking to reporters, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka, who met Nadda the previous day, said that it was a “waste of time,” adding that next time the government minister or any representative will have to come to the protest site to speak to them.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Cockroach People&#39;s Party&#39;s protest resumes at Delhi&#39;s Jantar Mantar. Despite the rain, a large number of protesters have gathered. <a href="https://t.co/UDL3NtBTXj">pic.twitter.com/UDL3NtBTXj</a>&mdash; INDEPENDENT PRESS (@IpIndependent) <a href="https://x.com/IpIndependent/status/2079287491979358656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/truck-loaded-with-stones-centre-s-attempt-to-speak-to-cjp-metro-stations-closed-what-s-happening-at-jantar-mantar-now-1784518807896">Truck loaded with stones, metro stations closed: What's happening at Jantar Mantar no</a><h2>What we know about Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike?</h2>This also comes after CJP founder Abhijit Dipke and three students from AISA ended their hunger strike on the day of Parliament march. However, activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is in Safdargunj Hospital, resumed his indefinite fast citing police brutality on students who attempted to march to the Parliament demanding accountability of the paper leaks in examinations.&nbsp;"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.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lathi-charge-tear-gas-commuters-jumping-metro-gates-videos-show-what-s-happening-at-cjp-s-chalo-sansad-march-watch-1784529207478">Lathi-charge, tear gas, commuters jumping metro gates: Videos show what's happening at CJP's 'Chalo Sansad' march</a>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260721/image-1784597121420.png"></figure>&nbsp;<h2>What we know about CJP meeting with Nadda?</h2>"No response has come from them. Next time, we will not talk to them till they come to the protest site. If they do not value our time, we also don't value theirs," Ranka said. CJP spokesperson Ranka and Saurav Das met Union minister Nadda on Jul 20 afternoon seeking time to consult the government leadership on the party's demands. They also submitted their demands - which included - immediate release of Wangchuk from hospital, resignation of Pradhan and financial aid to families of NEET students who died by suicide.&nbsp;After the meeting, Nadda in a post said, “This morning, for the first time, a proposal came from the protesters to hold talks with the government, and our discussions have been ongoing since 11:50 AM. The meeting took place in a cordial atmosphere. An initial verbal discussion was held in detail with their delegation, and they submitted a written petition to me around 4 PM. I have requested all the protesters to end their sit-in and assist the administration in restoring normalcy.”&nbsp;However, responding to it on X, Ranka said, “Just seeing this - Nadda ji, don’t lie. Your government got desperate when they realized the strength of this movement. Then ended up wasting our 4 hours for this useless meeting.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260721/image-1784596574590.png"></figure>&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260721/image-1784597342467.png"></figure>&nbsp;

A day after its Parliament march ended in clashes, CJP resumed its protest at Jantar Mantar despite heavy rain, renewing its demand for Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The group dismissed its meeting with JP Nadda as a "waste of time", while Wangchuk resumed his fast.

A day after Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s Parliament march plans ended in chaos and clashes, they have resumed their protest at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar. While they alleged that Delhi Police dismantled their stage, they were supported by students and they renewed the call for resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. This came a day after they met Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda and submitted their written demands. Speaking to reporters, CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka, who met Nadda the previous day, said that it was a “waste of time,” adding that next time the government minister or any representative will have to come to the protest site to speak to them.

A day after its Parliament march ended in clashes, CJP resumed its protest at Jantar Mantar despite heavy rain, renewing its demand for Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation. The group dismissed its meeting with JP Nadda as a "waste of time", while Wangchuk resumed his fast.

'Now come to us': CJP resumes protest after Parliament march violence, calls meeting with Nadda 'waste of time'

Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) spokesperson Saurav Das claimed that the outfit's founder, Abhijeet Dipke, had been “picked up” by the police during the protest march on Monday (July 20, 2026). However, later on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Das clarified that Delhi police have not arrested or detained Dipke. “DIPKE HAS BEEN PICKED UP BY THE POLICE! WE REQUEST ALL MPs TO IMMEDIATELY STAND IN SUPPORT OF THE STUDENTS ON THE STREETS!” Das said in a post on X. The CJP also confirmed the development on its X handle. “CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke has been picked up by the Police from Jantar Mantar,” it said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/JustIn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JustIn</a>: DIPKE HAS BEEN PICKED UP BY THE POLICE! WE REQUEST ALL MPs TO IMMEDIATELY STAND IN SUPPORT OF THE STUDENTS ON THE STREETS! THE POLICE IS BRUTALLY CRACKING DOWN AND BEATING UP PEACEFUL PROTESTERS.&mdash; Saurav Das (@SauravDassss) <a href="https://x.com/SauravDassss/status/2079130004441743404?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Delhi police rejects claim</h3>In response, Delhi police also clarified on X, responding to the post that reports circulating on social media over the allegation of the arrest or detention of Abhijit Dipke are "entirely false". “Misleading reports are currently circulating on various social media platforms claiming that Abhijit Dipke has been detained by the Delhi Police. &nbsp;It is formally clarified that these allegations are entirely false, and he is available on stage,” Delhi police said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-private-cars-grow-rapidly-to-2-5-million-what-it-says-about-the-public-transport-system-of-india-s-silicon-valley-namma-metro-bmtc-1784547812109">Bengaluru private cars grow rapidly to 2.5 million. What it says about the public transport system of India's ‘Silicon Valley’</a>&nbsp;Previously, CJP also alleged that the Delhi Police "assaulted" Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, who was representing the activist at the Parliament March. However, Delhi Police refuted these claims, calling them "false and misleading". CJP spokesperson Saurav Das stated in the post on social media platform X, "Geetanjali ji's hair was pulled by Delhi Police; she was assaulted. A 12-year-old girl's head has been broken. Forty to fifty others have also suffered head injuries. Delhi Police, what is going on!?".&nbsp;Reacting to the post, Delhi police rejected these claims and replied on X, "False information is being currently circulated on social media regarding the post's claim that an individual named Geetanjali, a 12-year-old girl, was assaulted, had her hair pulled, sustained a head injury, and approximately 40 to 50 other individuals suffered broken heads. This information is false. The claims being circulated in the posts are not true. Please do not spread or amplify false or misleading information." The Delhi Police clarified that they are managing the demonstration with utmost professionalism, dismissing allegations regarding the use of violence or the detention of protesters. Addressing reports from certain media outlets claiming that sporadic force and arrests occurred at Jantar Mantar, the police issued a statement on X confirming that no such incidents occurred. Earlier in the day, several students, activists, and professionals gathered at Jantar Mantar and began marching to Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.&nbsp;

Previously, CJP also alleged that the Delhi Police "assaulted" Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, who was representing the activist at the Parliament March. However, Delhi Police refuted these claims, calling them "false and misleading".

Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) spokesperson Saurav Das claimed that the outfit's founder, Abhijeet Dipke, had been “picked up” by the police during the protest march on Monday (July 20, 2026). However, later on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Das clarified that Delhi police have not arrested or detained Dipke. “DIPKE HAS BEEN PICKED UP BY THE POLICE! WE REQUEST ALL MPs TO IMMEDIATELY STAND IN SUPPORT OF THE STUDENTS ON THE STREETS!” Das said in a post on X. The CJP also confirmed the development on its X handle. “CJP Founder Abhijeet Dipke has been picked up by the Police from Jantar Mantar,” it said.

Previously, CJP also alleged that the Delhi Police "assaulted" Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, who was representing the activist at the Parliament March. However, Delhi Police refuted these claims, calling them "false and misleading".

FACT CHECK: Was Abhijit Dipke detained during CJP's Parliament march? Here's what police say

A hunger strike led by three office-bearers of the All India Students’ Association (AISA) at Jantar Mantar was formally called off on Monday (July 20) after prominent civil society figures and opposition parliamentarians intervened, offering the student leaders water to break their fast. The hunger strike, which had been underway as part of nationwide student demonstrations against examination irregularities and systemic reforms in higher education, ended following a joint appeal by a delegation that included veteran actor Shabana Azmi, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha, and actor-activist Prakash Raj. Activist Yogendra Yadav, lawyer Prashant Bhushan, and CPI(M) MP Amra Ram were also part of the visiting group.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-moves-high-court-calls-for-his-discharge-1784459559352/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-moves-high-court-calls-for-his-discharge-1784459559352/embed</a>&nbsp;Offering a sip of water to the fasting student leaders, the delegation commended their resilience but urged them to shift the strategy of their movement. MP Manoj Jha assured the student body that opposition leaders would directly raise the issues of examination accountability and institutional reforms on the floor of the House during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-loses-over-9kg-on-day-19-of-hunger-strike-medical-team-issues-critical-update-1784182215506">Sonam Wangchuk loses over 9kg on day 19 of hunger strike; medical team issues critical update</a>&nbsp;Accepting the assurance, AISA representatives affirmed that while the indefinite fast has ended, their agitation for educational equity and student rights will continue through active parliamentary push and street demonstrations across the country.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sansad-chalo-march-sonam-wangchuk-writes-to-safdarjung-hospital-seeking-discharge-to-join-parliament-protest-1784530383766">'Sansad Chalo' march: Sonam Wangchuk writes to Safdarjung Hospital seeking discharge to join parliament protest</a>&nbsp;Reformer Sonam Wangchuk also wrote to the Medical Superintendent of Safdarjung Hospital seeking permission for his discharge, expressing his desire to join the march to the parliament. In a written appeal submitted to hospital authorities on Monday morning (July 20), the activist affirmed that their health indicators have stabilised and requested permission to participate in the demonstration scheduled to coincide with the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Student union leaders at Delhi's Jantar Mantar have called off their indefinite hunger strike following an appeal from prominent civil society members, academics, and citizens.

A hunger strike led by three office-bearers of the All India Students’ Association (AISA) at Jantar Mantar was formally called off on Monday (July 20) after prominent civil society figures and opposition parliamentarians intervened, offering the student leaders water to break their fast. The hunger strike, which had been underway as part of nationwide student demonstrations against examination irregularities and systemic reforms in higher education, ended following a joint appeal by a delegation that included veteran actor Shabana Azmi, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha, and actor-activist Prakash Raj. Activist Yogendra Yadav, lawyer Prashant Bhushan, and CPI(M) MP Amra Ram were also part of the visiting group. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-moves-high-court-calls-for-his-discharge-1784459559352/embed Offering a sip of water to the fasting student leaders, the delegation commended their resilience but urged them to shift the strategy of their movement. MP Manoj Jha assured the student body that opposition leaders would directly raise the issues of examination accountability and institutional reforms on the floor of the House during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. Also read: Sonam Wangchuk loses over 9kg on day 19 of hunger strike; medical team issues critical update Accepting the assurance, AISA representatives affirmed that while the indefinite fast has ended, their agitation for educational equity and student rights will continue through active parliamentary push and street demonstrations across the country. Also read: 'Sansad Chalo' march: Sonam Wangchuk writes to Safdarjung Hospital seeking discharge to join parliament protest Reformer Sonam Wangchuk also wrote to the Medical Superintendent of Safdarjung Hospital seeking permission for his discharge, expressing his desire to join the march to the parliament. In a written appeal submitted to hospital authorities on Monday morning (July 20), the activist affirmed that their health indicators have stabilised and requested permission to participate in the demonstration scheduled to coincide with the opening day of Parliament's Monsoon Session.

Student union leaders at Delhi's Jantar Mantar have called off their indefinite hunger strike following an appeal from prominent civil society members, academics, and citizens.

Student union leaders call off hunger strike at Jantar Mantar after civil society appeal, but protest continues

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on X has claimed that he was "beaten up" and "detained" by the police. This comes as on Saturday (Jul 18) Delhi police asked protestors to vacate the Jantar Mantar. Visuals from the protest site show police forcibly clearing out protestors after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital. The CJP claims that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-sonam-wangchuk-be-forced-to-eat-like-irom-sharmila-supreme-court-on-preserving-life-of-person-on-indefinite-fast-wion-decodes-1784265045185">Can the government force-feed Sonam Wangchuk like it did Irom Sharmila? Here's what the law says about hunger strikes | WION Decodes</a><h2>Protesters allege Wangchuk was taken away by force</h2>Supporters of Wangchuk disputed the police version, claiming he was forcibly removed from the protest site.Members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been supporting the protest, refused to leave Jantar Mantar after Wangchuk was taken away.Several protesters alleged that Delhi Police "picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully" before beginning to clear the site.Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, later claimed on X that he had been assaulted and detained during the police action. "I have been beaten up and put under detention by Delhi Police," Dipke posted. There was no immediate response from the Delhi Police to Dipke's allegation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) volunteers refuse to vacate protest site at Jantar Mantar, as Delhi Police takes Sonam Wangchuk to hospital following court orders on day 21 of his hunger strike (Credits: @SauravDassss/X) <a href="https://t.co/5flWyF9zi9">pic.twitter.com/5flWyF9zi9</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078321635476775059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-hospitalised-as-health-deteriorates-after-20-day-hunger-strike-says-delhi-police-1784342146233">Sonam Wangchuk hospitalised as health deteriorates after 20-day hunger strike; Delhi Police asks protestors to 'peacefully' vacate Jantar Mantar</a><h2>Visuals show protestors being dragged away from protest site</h2>On Saturday morning, Delhi Police, in its statement on X, asked protestors to “peacefully vacate” Jantar Mantar. However, videos shared by protestors from the protest site show protestors being dragged away by the police.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Delhi: Protesters are being cleared from the Jantar Mantar protest site after activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike there for the past 20 days, was taken to a hospital by Delhi Police for medical treatment (Video: ANI) <a href="https://t.co/cFrDtBfNjK">pic.twitter.com/cFrDtBfNjK</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078318730887745627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&#39;Delhi Police picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully,&#39; allege protesters (Credits: @SauravDassss/X) <a href="https://t.co/PpjExNPWeL">pic.twitter.com/PpjExNPWeL</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078317959119020481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New Delhi: Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founding president Abhijeet Dipke said the movement would continue despite activist Sonam Wangchuk being taken to hospital, asserting that protesters would march to Parliament on July 20 Dipke added that the party would now seek Prime… <a href="https://t.co/OstBy7CzQ7">pic.twitter.com/OstBy7CzQ7</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2078323570095370380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The developments came hours after Dipke alleged that unidentified individuals had tried to attack Wangchuk during the protest.According to Dipke, an object was thrown towards the activist, although Wangchuk was not injured. He also accused authorities of failing to prevent repeated attempts to disrupt the demonstration.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that he was assaulted and detained by Delhi Police during the clearance of protesters from Jantar Mantar after Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to hospital, claims that police had not publicly responded to at the time of publication.

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke on X has claimed that he was "beaten up" and "detained" by the police. This comes as on Saturday (Jul 18) Delhi police asked protestors to vacate the Jantar Mantar. Visuals from the protest site show police forcibly clearing out protestors after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital. The CJP claims that "Delhi Police has picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully". Also read | Can the government force-feed Sonam Wangchuk like it did Irom Sharmila? Here's what the law says about hunger strikes | WION Decodes Protesters allege Wangchuk was taken away by force Supporters of Wangchuk disputed the police version, claiming he was forcibly removed from the protest site. Members of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been supporting the protest, refused to leave Jantar Mantar after Wangchuk was taken away. Several protesters alleged that Delhi Police "picked up Sonam Wangchuk forcefully" before beginning to clear the site. Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, later claimed on X that he had been assaulted and detained during the police action. "I have been beaten up and put under detention by Delhi Police," Dipke posted. There was no immediate response from the Delhi Police to Dipke's allegation.

Cockroach Janta Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that he was assaulted and detained by Delhi Police during the clearance of protesters from Jantar Mantar after Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to hospital, claims that police had not publicly responded to at the time of publication.

Dipke claims to have been 'beaten up, detained' as Delhi police forcibly remove protestors from Jantar Mantar | VIDEO

At least 60 people, including students, were detained in the Indian capital city of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-raging-israel-hamas-war-indias-delhi-placed-on-security-alert-646205">New Delhi</a> for organising a pro-Palestinian demonstration demanding diplomatic support for Palestine and denouncing Israel’s actions in Gaza, on Monday (Oct 16).&nbsp;

This comes after Israel declared war against Hamas after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise against southern Israel over a week ago.&nbsp;

The Delhi police said that they had detained around 60 people for not taking prior permission for the protest, reported news agency PTI. The demonstration was held by the CPI (ML)-backed All India Students Association (AISA) and other student organisations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly expressed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/people-of-india-stand-by-israel-pm-modi-tells-netanyahu-in-call-644906">support for Israel</a>.&nbsp;

After his previous call with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, the Indian PM took to X and said, “People of India stand firmly with Israel in this difficult hour. India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations”.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened at Jantar Mantar?</h2>

According to PTI, the protesters, most of them students and teachers from Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, took to Jantar Mantar and started raising slogans ‘Justice for Palestine,’ and ‘Gaza we are with you.’

“We are holding a demonstration and demanding diplomatic support for Palestine and actions against Israel, for violating human rights,” said Hemant, one of the demonstrators, as quoted by the news agency.&nbsp;

Subsequently, the Delhi police rounded the protesters up in buses and took them to an undisclosed location. The AISA has since released a statement demanding their release.&nbsp;

<h2>Support for Palestine</h2>

The CPI (ML) General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya also visited the Palestine Embassy to express solidarity on behalf of the Indian people, in New Delhi, on Monday.

&nbsp;“We came here to express our solidarity on behalf of (the) Indian people. Right now, we all know whatever happened on the 7th of October but it has not stopped there. Right now what is happening in Gaza is nothing short of a very openly declared genocide,” Bhattacharya told ANI.&nbsp;

Adnan Abu al Haija, Ambassador of Palestine in New Delhi following his meeting with some leaders of the opposition, including a few Members of Parliament (MP) told ANI, “We discussed the situation in Gaza and in Palestine in general and they presented their solidarity with the Palestinian people…”&nbsp;

He added, “We hope India will play a good role in stopping the siege on our people of Gaza and putting pressure on the Israeli government for humanitarian aid to our people in Gaza…”

<h2>India’s stance on Israel-Hamas war</h2>

Since the incumbent PM took office New Delhi has moved closer to Israel despite historically backing the Palestinian cause which is partly thanks to the Netanyahu government.

However, opposition parties in New Delhi including the Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party reiterated their support for Palestinians in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-congress-party-extends-support-for-palestinians-amid-hamas-attack-on-israel-calls-for-ceasefire-644564">recent resolution</a> passed a week ago.&nbsp;

On Thursday, (Oct 12) the Indian foreign ministry condemned the attack by Hamas&nbsp;in Israel as a "terrorist attack" and reiterated its longstanding position for an independent Palestine.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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At least 60 people, including students, were detained in the Indian capital city of New Delhi for organising a pro-Palestinian demonstration demanding diplomatic support for Palestine and denouncing Israel’s actions in Gaza, on Monday (Oct 16).

At least 60 people, including students, were detained in the Indian capital city of New Delhi for organising a pro-Palestinian demonstration demanding diplomatic support for Palestine and denouncing Israel’s actions in Gaza, on Monday (Oct 16). This comes after Israel declared war against Hamas after the Palestinian militant group launched a surprise against southern Israel over a week ago. The Delhi police said that they had detained around 60 people for not taking prior permission for the protest, reported news agency PTI. The demonstration was held by the CPI (ML)-backed All India Students Association (AISA) and other student organisations. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly expressed support for Israel. After his previous call with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, the Indian PM took to X and said, “People of India stand firmly with Israel in this difficult hour. India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations”. What happened at Jantar Mantar? According to PTI, the protesters, most of them students and teachers from Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, took to Jantar Mantar and started raising slogans ‘Justice for Palestine,’ and ‘Gaza we are with you.’ “We are holding a demonstration and demanding diplomatic support for Palestine and actions against Israel, for violating human rights,” said Hemant, one of the demonstrators, as quoted by the news agency. Subsequently, the Delhi police rounded the protesters up in buses and took them to an undisclosed location. The AISA has since released a statement demanding their release. Support for Palestine The CPI (ML) General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya also visited the Palestine Embassy to express solidarity on behalf of the Indian people, in New Delhi, on Monday. “We came here to express our solidarity on behalf of (the) Indian people. Right now, we all know whatever happened on the 7th of October but it has not stopped there. Right now what is happening in Gaza is nothing short of a very openly declared genocide,” Bhattacharya told ANI. Adnan Abu al Haija, Ambassador of Palestine in New Delhi following his meeting with some leaders of the opposition, including a few Members of Parliament (MP) told ANI, “We discussed the situation in Gaza and in Palestine in general and they presented their solidarity with the Palestinian people…” He added, “We hope India will play a good role in stopping the siege on our people of Gaza and putting pressure on the Israeli government for humanitarian aid to our people in Gaza…” India’s stance on Israel-Hamas war Since the incumbent PM took office New Delhi has moved closer to Israel despite historically backing the Palestinian cause which is partly thanks to the Netanyahu government. However, opposition parties in New Delhi including the Indian National Congress (INC) or Congress party reiterated their support for Palestinians in a recent resolution passed a week ago. On Thursday, (Oct 12) the Indian foreign ministry condemned the attack by Hamas in Israel as a "terrorist attack" and reiterated its longstanding position for an independent Palestine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Dozens detained by police for staging pro-Palestine protests without due permission

The ongoing wrestlers' protest at Jantar Mantar in the capital city of New Delhi may have taken a political turn. Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) - a farmers' organisation that was at the forefront of the anti-farm law protests last year, has announced it will be holding nationwide demonstrations to show solidarity with the grapplers.

The ongoing wrestlers' protest at Jantar Mantar in the capital city of New Delhi may have taken a political turn. Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) - a farmers' organisation that was at the forefront of the anti-farm law protests last year, has announced it will be holding nationwide demonstrations to show solidarity with the grapplers. A statement released by SKM stated that several big leaders from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh will visit the protest site and extend support to the protesting wrestlers. On Sunday, hundreds of farmers and khap leaders reached the venue and reminded the capital of the 13-month-long farmer's protest. The Indian wrestlers have been sitting at Jantar Mantar for the last few weeks, protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, demanding his resignation. WATCH | Scuffle between Delhi Police and wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar × After news of the farmers' organisation taking an active interest in the protest made the news, police beefed up security around the venue. Meanwhile, Singh released a 25-minute video urging farmer leaders to not make a 'mistake' but wait for the outcome of the probe into the allegations of sexual harassment made by the wrestlers. "Chacha-Taau (uncles), I am not saying that you should not come to Delhi. You can come to Delhi, and do whatever you want," Singh can be heard saying in the video. "Believe me, if daughters of your village are into wrestling, then ask them when no one is around if the allegations against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh depict what Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh is. After that, you can do whatever you want," he added. "It should not happen that when the probe report is out after one month, two months or three months, you have to repent." ALSO READ | Wrestlers hold candle march to protest against WFI, Brijbhushan Singh Why the protests? Notably, it was in April that prominent wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogar and Sakshi Malik amongst others returned to the protest site claiming that no progress had been made after their earlier protest. They claimed that six women wrestlers and a minor had filed a sexual harassment complaint against Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at Connaught Place Police Station but the Delhi police did not register any FIR. It was only after the Supreme Court intervened that two FIRs were filed by the Delhi police. The wrestlers have made it clear that they won't suspend the protest until they get justice and Brij Bhushan is removed as the WFI chief and put behind bars. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

As farmers join wrestlers protest, WFI chief says do not make 'mistake'

Top wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc. continue their protest against Wrestling Federation of India&nbsp;(WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims. Since then, several big names have responded to the entire controversy. Recently, Sourav Ganguly -- India's former captain and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s ex-president -- also&nbsp;joined the bandwagon and reacted.

In a recent event, Ganguly was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI, "Let them fight their battle. I really don't know what's happening there, I just read in the newspapers. I realised one thing in the sports world, that you don't talk about things which you don't have complete knowledge of. I hope it gets resolved. Wrestlers bring a lot of accolades to the country &amp; hopefully, it will be resolved."

Meanwhile, following&nbsp;a scuffle that broke out between Delhi Police and wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar in the national capital in New Delhi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur issued a statement on Friday (May 05). Thakur has revealed that the Delhi Police is&nbsp;conducting a fair probe against the accused, who is also a BJP MP.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/union-minister-anurag-thakur-promises-fair-probe-in-wrestlers-protest-says-necessary-action-will-be-taken-589177">Union Minister Anurag Thakur promises fair probe in wrestlers' protest, says necessary action will be taken</a>

Thakur told reporters, "As far as athletes’ demands are concerned, I would like to say we promised to conduct fair elections, and IOA will be conducting that."&nbsp;He added, "We promised to form a committee, and we have done that too; FIR was to be lodged, and Delhi Police have done that as well. They wanted fair trial, and Delhi Police is on it, too. The Supreme Court, too, has announced its decision."

On Thursday (May 04),&nbsp; the Supreme Court of India&nbsp;closed the proceedings on a plea filed by three female wrestlers – who&nbsp;levelled physical assault charges against WFI chief Brij Bhushan – noting that the FIRs are now registered, and as many as seven&nbsp;complainants are provided with adequate security.

Top wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc. continue their protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims.

Top wrestlers such as Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat, etc. continue their protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexual harassment claims. Since then, several big names have responded to the entire controversy. Recently, Sourav Ganguly -- India's former captain and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s ex-president -- also joined the bandwagon and reacted. In a recent event, Ganguly was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI, "Let them fight their battle. I really don't know what's happening there, I just read in the newspapers. I realised one thing in the sports world, that you don't talk about things which you don't have complete knowledge of. I hope it gets resolved. Wrestlers bring a lot of accolades to the country & hopefully, it will be resolved." Meanwhile, following a scuffle that broke out between Delhi Police and wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar in the national capital in New Delhi, Union Minister Anurag Thakur issued a statement on Friday (May 05). Thakur has revealed that the Delhi Police is conducting a fair probe against the accused, who is also a BJP MP. Also Read: Union Minister Anurag Thakur promises fair probe in wrestlers' protest, says necessary action will be taken Thakur told reporters, "As far as athletes’ demands are concerned, I would like to say we promised to conduct fair elections, and IOA will be conducting that." He added, "We promised to form a committee, and we have done that too; FIR was to be lodged, and Delhi Police have done that as well. They wanted fair trial, and Delhi Police is on it, too. The Supreme Court, too, has announced its decision." On Thursday (May 04), the Supreme Court of India closed the proceedings on a plea filed by three female wrestlers – who levelled physical assault charges against WFI chief Brij Bhushan – noting that the FIRs are now registered, and as many as seven complainants are provided with adequate security.

'Let them fight....': Sourav Ganguly on wrestlers protest against WFI chief, says 'hope it gets resolved'

Asian and Commonwealth Games gold medalist wrestler Vinesh Phogat was shattered after an overnight scuffle between the protestors and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar. Phogat was in tears while expressing shock over getting the disrespect she feels the wrestlers ‘do not deserve’, after what they did for the country.&nbsp;

As per the reports, it was around 11 PM on Wednesday night when the wrestlers were bringing in their folding beds for the night stay, and the on-duty personal started enquiring about the same. Wrestlers also alleged that Delhi Police didn’t behave properly, and even abused a few female wrestlers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-delhi-three-detained-after-minor-altercation-between-police-protesting-wrestlers-at-jantar-mantar-588665">WATCH | Delhi: Three detained after ‘minor altercation’ between police, protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar</a>

Following such a heart-wrenching incident, Vinesh broke down while addressing the media and said these wrestlers were not criminals, and they didn’t win all those medals to see such a day.&nbsp;

"If you want to kill us, then kill us," a completely shattered Vinesh Phogat said.

"Did we win medals for the country to see this day?" Vinesh said. “We are not criminals. We do not deserve such treatment. The police officer who was drunk hit my brother,” Phogat added.&nbsp;

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VIDEO | Ruckus between protesting wrestlers and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar. More details are awaited. <a href="https://t.co/AIS5zgH4My">pic.twitter.com/AIS5zgH4My</a>
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In a video posted by the PTI, a visibly crying Vinesh said no one should win a medal for India if they were to be treated like this.&nbsp;

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— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1653840640592187393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Besides, Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia - who is also present at the venue protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexually harassing seven female wrestlers, including a minor, urged everyone to reach Jantar Mantar by morning and support them.&nbsp;

He said people like Brij Bhushan Singh are roaming freely despite doing such crimes, while the wrestlers who have brought laurels for the country are going through this disrespect and mess.

"I request everyone to reach Delhi by morning. This is the time. If not now, then when. This is the question of the dignity of our daughters. People like Brij Bhushan are roaming free despite being a criminal and all this is happening to us," Bajrang Punia said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Asian and Commonwealth Games gold medalist wrestler Vinesh Phogat was shattered after an overnight scuffle between the protestors and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar.

Asian and Commonwealth Games gold medalist wrestler Vinesh Phogat was shattered after an overnight scuffle between the protestors and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar. Phogat was in tears while expressing shock over getting the disrespect she feels the wrestlers ‘do not deserve’, after what they did for the country. As per the reports, it was around 11 PM on Wednesday night when the wrestlers were bringing in their folding beds for the night stay, and the on-duty personal started enquiring about the same. Wrestlers also alleged that Delhi Police didn’t behave properly, and even abused a few female wrestlers. ALSO READ: WATCH | Delhi: Three detained after ‘minor altercation’ between police, protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar Following such a heart-wrenching incident, Vinesh broke down while addressing the media and said these wrestlers were not criminals, and they didn’t win all those medals to see such a day. "If you want to kill us, then kill us," a completely shattered Vinesh Phogat said. "Did we win medals for the country to see this day?" Vinesh said. “We are not criminals. We do not deserve such treatment. The police officer who was drunk hit my brother,” Phogat added. VIDEO | Ruckus between protesting wrestlers and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar. More details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/AIS5zgH4My — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 3, 2023 × In a video posted by the PTI, a visibly crying Vinesh said no one should win a medal for India if they were to be treated like this. VIDEO | "The way they have made us suffer, I would not want any athlete to win a medal for the country," says wrestler Vinesh Phogat. pic.twitter.com/EpSk6dc3ZL — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 3, 2023 × Besides, Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia - who is also present at the venue protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over sexually harassing seven female wrestlers, including a minor, urged everyone to reach Jantar Mantar by morning and support them. He said people like Brij Bhushan Singh are roaming freely despite doing such crimes, while the wrestlers who have brought laurels for the country are going through this disrespect and mess. "I request everyone to reach Delhi by morning. This is the time. If not now, then when. This is the question of the dignity of our daughters. People like Brij Bhushan are roaming free despite being a criminal and all this is happening to us," Bajrang Punia said. (With inputs from agencies)

'If you want to kill us, then kill us,' says shattered Vinesh Phogat after overnight scuffle with Delhi Police

A late-night scuffle broke out between protesting wrestlers and the police in the Indian capital city, Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Wednesday (May 3). According to media reports, the alleged incident also caused some protesters to sustain head injuries.

Three people including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Somnath Bharti were detained after the incident, said the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Pranav Tayal. According to the DCP, a group of protesters led by an AAP leader reached the protest site without due permission on Wednesday evening.

The protesters “came to the protest site along with folding beds without permission. When we intervened, the supporters became aggressive and tried to get the beds out of the truck,” said Tayal, as quoted by ANI. He added, “Subsequently, a minor altercation took place and Somnath Bharti along with 2 others were detained.” 
 
This comes as top wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and others, have been protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)’s chief Brij Bhushan Singh after seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Singh for alleged sexual harassment and called for his arrest. 
 
The wrestlers have been staging a sit-in at Jantar Mantar since April 23 following the allegations and demanded criminal action against Bhushan. The Delhi Police has since filed two FIRs against the WFI president, on Friday on the allegations.&nbsp;

In a video being circulated on social media platforms, some of the protesters can be heard accusing police personnel of attacking two wrestlers under the influence of alcohol, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1653822345570840577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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After the incident, wrestler Bajrang Punia told ANI, “We're in need of the support of the whole country, everyone must come to Delhi. Police using force against us, abusing women and doing nothing against Brijbhushan.”

Another senior police officer said, “There were a few men who tried bringing cots to the protest site. When the policemen deployed at the spot asked them about the cots, they got aggressive and the protesters joined them,” reported PTI.&nbsp;

The officer also said, “They wrongfully restrained a policeman and accused him of being drunk, which was not the case. Police personnel are at the site and the situation is now under control. No protester was beaten up.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, former wrestler Rajveer told PTI, “The mattresses got wet due to rain, so we were bringing folding beds for sleeping, but the police did not allow that. Drunk policeman Dharemendra abused Vinesh Phogat and got involved in a scuffle with us.”

“They started hitting us. Bajrang Punia's brother-in-law Dushyant and Rahul suffered head injuries. The police did not even let doctors reach the site. Even the women constables were misbehaving with us,” he said.

Punia’s wife Sangeeta, who claims that she was pushed around by policemen, has also called for farmers and their leaders to assemble at the protest site on Thursday morning. 
 
The protests come after three months ago, prominent wrestlers came forward with sexual assault allegations against the WFI chief. Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has since announced the formation of an oversight committee to probe the allegations levelled against WFI and other coaches.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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A late-night scuffle broke out between protesting wrestlers and the police in the Indian capital city, Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Wednesday (May 3). According to media reports, the alleged incident also caused some protesters to sustain head injuries.

A late-night scuffle broke out between protesting wrestlers and the police in the Indian capital city, Delhi’s Jantar Mantar on Wednesday (May 3). According to media reports, the alleged incident also caused some protesters to sustain head injuries. Three people including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Somnath Bharti were detained after the incident, said the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Pranav Tayal. According to the DCP, a group of protesters led by an AAP leader reached the protest site without due permission on Wednesday evening. The protesters “came to the protest site along with folding beds without permission. When we intervened, the supporters became aggressive and tried to get the beds out of the truck,” said Tayal, as quoted by ANI. He added, “Subsequently, a minor altercation took place and Somnath Bharti along with 2 others were detained.” This comes as top wrestlers like Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, and others, have been protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)’s chief Brij Bhushan Singh after seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Singh for alleged sexual harassment and called for his arrest. The wrestlers have been staging a sit-in at Jantar Mantar since April 23 following the allegations and demanded criminal action against Bhushan. The Delhi Police has since filed two FIRs against the WFI president, on Friday on the allegations. In a video being circulated on social media platforms, some of the protesters can be heard accusing police personnel of attacking two wrestlers under the influence of alcohol, reported news agency PTI. #WATCH | Delhi: A scuffle breaks out between protesting wrestlers and Delhi Police at Jantar Mantar pic.twitter.com/gzPJiPYuUU — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2023 × After the incident, wrestler Bajrang Punia told ANI, “We're in need of the support of the whole country, everyone must come to Delhi. Police using force against us, abusing women and doing nothing against Brijbhushan.” Another senior police officer said, “There were a few men who tried bringing cots to the protest site. When the policemen deployed at the spot asked them about the cots, they got aggressive and the protesters joined them,” reported PTI. The officer also said, “They wrongfully restrained a policeman and accused him of being drunk, which was not the case. Police personnel are at the site and the situation is now under control. No protester was beaten up.” Meanwhile, former wrestler Rajveer told PTI, “The mattresses got wet due to rain, so we were bringing folding beds for sleeping, but the police did not allow that. Drunk policeman Dharemendra abused Vinesh Phogat and got involved in a scuffle with us.” “They started hitting us. Bajrang Punia's brother-in-law Dushyant and Rahul suffered head injuries. The police did not even let doctors reach the site. Even the women constables were misbehaving with us,” he said. Punia’s wife Sangeeta, who claims that she was pushed around by policemen, has also called for farmers and their leaders to assemble at the protest site on Thursday morning. The protests come after three months ago, prominent wrestlers came forward with sexual assault allegations against the WFI chief. Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has since announced the formation of an oversight committee to probe the allegations levelled against WFI and other coaches. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Delhi: Three detained after ‘minor altercation’ between police, protesting wrestlers at Jantar Mantar

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing accusations of sexual harassment by several female wrestlers, made a controversial comment while speaking to a TV news channel recently. Bhushan, against whom the two FIRs have now been registered following the wrestlers' protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, is said to have physically assaulted countless female grapplers including minors over the years.

“Earlier, they were saying that I had sexually abused 100 children. Then they started saying that it happened to 1,000 children. Did I eat roti made of Shilajit?” (Did I consume an energy booster (not verbatim) with bread), Singh told ABP News channel, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

He further added that the protest taking place at Jantar Mantar is all but politically motivated.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-mess-bajrang-punia-gives-befitting-reply-to-anurag-thakurs-spent-12-hours-with-wrestlers-remark-587486">Wrestling mess: Bajrang Punia gives befitting reply to Anurag Thakur's ‘spent 12 hours with wrestlers' remark</a>

After several failed attempts by wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar trying to lodge an FIR against the accused, Brij Bhushan Singh, it got eventually registered by the Delhi Police on Friday. The FIRs were filed after Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta - who represents the Delhi Police, told an apex court bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice PS Narasimha, that a case would get registered against the WFI chief.

The first of the two FIRs is related to allegations of a minor wrestler and is registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The second one is related to outraging the modesty of women.

Early this year, several medal-winning wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and others began the protest against Brij Bhushan over sexually harassing female wrestlers. While an oversight committee under the chairmanship of legendary MC Mary Kom was also formed to look into the matter, no FIR or arrest was made even after months of the probe.

In April, wrestlers returned to the site to resume the protest, and while many sports personalities and political leaders have come in their support, Brij Bhushan is not arrested yet.

The grapplers have asserted that till the time he gets behind the bars and findings of the probe are&nbsp;not made public, they are not going to leave.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing accusations of sexual harassment by several female wrestlers, made a controversial comment while speaking to a TV news channel recently.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, who is facing accusations of sexual harassment by several female wrestlers, made a controversial comment while speaking to a TV news channel recently. Bhushan, against whom the two FIRs have now been registered following the wrestlers' protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, is said to have physically assaulted countless female grapplers including minors over the years. “Earlier, they were saying that I had sexually abused 100 children. Then they started saying that it happened to 1,000 children. Did I eat roti made of Shilajit?” (Did I consume an energy booster (not verbatim) with bread), Singh told ABP News channel, as quoted by Hindustan Times. He further added that the protest taking place at Jantar Mantar is all but politically motivated. ALSO READ: Wrestling mess: Bajrang Punia gives befitting reply to Anurag Thakur's ‘spent 12 hours with wrestlers' remark After several failed attempts by wrestlers protesting at Jantar Mantar trying to lodge an FIR against the accused, Brij Bhushan Singh, it got eventually registered by the Delhi Police on Friday. The FIRs were filed after Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta - who represents the Delhi Police, told an apex court bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice PS Narasimha, that a case would get registered against the WFI chief. The first of the two FIRs is related to allegations of a minor wrestler and is registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The second one is related to outraging the modesty of women. Early this year, several medal-winning wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh Phogat and others began the protest against Brij Bhushan over sexually harassing female wrestlers. While an oversight committee under the chairmanship of legendary MC Mary Kom was also formed to look into the matter, no FIR or arrest was made even after months of the probe. In April, wrestlers returned to the site to resume the protest, and while many sports personalities and political leaders have come in their support, Brij Bhushan is not arrested yet. The grapplers have asserted that till the time he gets behind the bars and findings of the probe are not made public, they are not going to leave.

Brij Bhushan Singh makes controversial claim amid accusations of sexual harassments by female wrestlers

The Indian wrestlers on Thursday continued their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for the second consecutive day.

The Indian wrestlers on Thursday continued their protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and its President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for the second consecutive day. Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Brinda Karat came to the protest site at Jantar Mantar in the Indian capital of New Delhi and climbed up the stage but was soon asked by the wrestlers to step down and not try to 'politicise' their protest. Indian Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia requested the CPI(M) leader to not come on the stage after she remained insistent on taking the microphone and giving a speech. “Madam, I request you to please step down. Please don’t politicise the protest. This is the wrestlers' protest. Please get down from the stage,” he said. It took repeated requests from Punia and other wrestlers to finally get Karat off the stage. #WATCH | CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat asked to step down from the stage during wrestlers' protest against WFI at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/sw8WMTdjsk — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2023 × Meanwhile, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took to Twitter to support the protest. "Our players are the pride of the country. They bring laurels to the country by their performance at the world level. The players have made serious allegations of exploitation against the Wrestling Federation and its president. The voices of these players should be heard. Allegations should be investigated and appropriate action taken," tweeted Vadra in Hindi. हमारे खिलाड़ी देश की शान हैं। विश्व स्तर पर अपने प्रदर्शन से वे देश का मान बढ़ाते हैं। कुश्ती फेडरेशन व उसके अध्यक्ष पर खिलाड़ियों ने शोषण के गंभीर आरोप लगाए हैं। इन खिलाड़ियों की आवाज सुनी जानी चाहिए। आरोपों की जांच कर उचित कार्रवाई की जानी चाहिए। — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) January 19, 2023 × Delhi Commission for Women issued a notice to the sports ministry and demanded the city police to file a case. BJP sends its mediator Later in the day, Babita Phogat, a former Olympian, and a BJP member arrived at the protest site and attempted to mediate between the players and the Sports Ministry. "I'm a wrestler first. The BJP government is with the wrestlers. I have heard instances of abuse in my career as well. There is no smoke without fire," said Phogat. “I have assured them that the government is with them. I will try that their issues are resolved today." Allegations levelled by the wrestlers Notably, Indian wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and others sat on a 'Dharna' (protest) on Wednesday at Jantar Mantar in the capital city of New Delhi to disclose the shoddy dealings of the federation. During the press conference, Phogat and Malik accused the federation President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and coaches of sexual harassment while Punia alleged severe mismanagement in the players' training. “Women wrestlers have been sexually harassed at national camps by coaches and also the WFI president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh," said Phogat. "Some of the coaches appointed at national camps have been sexually harassing women wrestlers for years. The WFI president is also involved in sexual harassment." Read more: Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms', allege sexual harassment, corruption in wrestling federation WFI president denies allegations After being put on the spot, WFI President Singh refuted all charges and defended himself by saying that he could be 'hanged' if the allegations against him were proven true. “Is anyone saying that the WFI has sexually harassed a wrestler? Only Vinesh has said it. Has anyone come forward and said that they personally have been sexually harassed? Even if one wrestler comes forward and says that she has been sexually harassed, that day I can be hanged," he said. SAI intervenes Afterwards, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) issued an official statement demanding an explanation from the WFI on all charges within the next 72 hours. “Taking cognisance of the protest staged by wrestlers, including Olympic and CWG medalists, in Delhi today and a press conference in which wrestlers have levelled serious charges of sexual harassment of women wrestlers by the President and coaches of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) and of mismanagement in the functioning of the federation, the Sports Ministry has sought an explanation from WFI on the allegations and directed it to furnish a reply within the next 72 hours." Read more: Sports ministry gives 72 hours to wrestling body for explanation on sexual harassment allegations As the wrestlers continue their protest, SAI has cancelled the Women National Wrestling Coaching Camp that was scheduled to start on January 18 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, with participation of 41 wrestlers and 13 coaches. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

All that has happened so far in the protest by Indian wrestlers against the wrestling federation

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday held a silent protest at Jantar Mantar here against the violence that took place during Amit Shah`s roadshow in Kolkata on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Many top leaders of the party, including Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, Dr Jitendra Singh and Vijay Goel, were seen sitting with a finger on their lips, holding placards that read - `Save Bengal Save Democracy`.&nbsp;

The leaders also wore black bands as a mark of protest.

On Tuesday, clashes had broken out between BJP supporters and Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) activists after stones were allegedly pelted at Shah`s convoy as it passed through College Street.&nbsp;

The protest left several injured and the police later told Shah to immediately end the roadshow.

Bengali polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar`s statue was also vandalised during the clashes.

After the silent protest, Goel told ANI that Mamata Banerjee knows that she is losing which is why she is instigating violence across the state.

"There is no place for violence in West Bengal. Mamata Banerjee is regularly fanning violence across the state. She knows that TMC is losing and BJP is moving ahead. This is absolutely not acceptable to anybody that the national president of the largest party which is at the Centre is not allowed to conduct a roadshow," he said.

Polling for nine seats in Bengal is scheduled to be held in the seventh phase of Lok Sabha election on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday held a silent protest at Jantar Mantar here against the violence that took place during Amit Shah`s roadshow in Kolkata on Tuesday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday held a silent protest at Jantar Mantar here against the violence that took place during Amit Shah`s roadshow in Kolkata on Tuesday. Many top leaders of the party, including Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, Dr Jitendra Singh and Vijay Goel, were seen sitting with a finger on their lips, holding placards that read - `Save Bengal Save Democracy`. The leaders also wore black bands as a mark of protest. On Tuesday, clashes had broken out between BJP supporters and Trinamool Chhatra Parishad (TMCP) activists after stones were allegedly pelted at Shah`s convoy as it passed through College Street. The protest left several injured and the police later told Shah to immediately end the roadshow. Bengali polymath Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar`s statue was also vandalised during the clashes. After the silent protest, Goel told ANI that Mamata Banerjee knows that she is losing which is why she is instigating violence across the state. "There is no place for violence in West Bengal. Mamata Banerjee is regularly fanning violence across the state. She knows that TMC is losing and BJP is moving ahead. This is absolutely not acceptable to anybody that the national president of the largest party which is at the Centre is not allowed to conduct a roadshow," he said. Polling for nine seats in Bengal is scheduled to be held in the seventh phase of Lok Sabha election on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP holds silent protest at Jantar Mantar over violence at Amit Shah's Kolkata roadshow

To up its ante against the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in Sikkim, footballer turned politician, Bhaichung Bhutia is all set to lead a day-long protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday.&nbsp;

With just a few days to go for the assembly polls in Sikkim, the vice president of Hamro Sikkim Party, Bhutia will be leading a 20-member delegation of HSP members to Delhi.&nbsp;

A protest will be put up in front of the Jantar Mantar against the SDF on several issues ranging from alleged corruption in the government, demand for tribal status for eleven communities of Sikkim and restoration of Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.&nbsp;

“Corruption is a disease in our society today. The state of Sikkim is suffering from massive corruption. The government has no money but the individuals have become richer than the government. We are going to fight corruption in Sikkim,” said Bhutia.&nbsp;

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It is time to take a stand against corruption! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hamrosikkim?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hamrosikkim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/saynotocorruption?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#saynotocorruption</a> <a href="https://t.co/ICZMu8U2K0">pic.twitter.com/ICZMu8U2K0</a>
— Bhaichung Bhutia (@bhaichung15) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhaichung15/status/1081806669405999104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, political analysts feel that Bhutia has sounded the bugle for the upcoming polls in the state and such protests will further help the newly formed regional party gain more momentum.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the Election Commission of India has allotted the ‘whistle’ sign as an election symbol to HSP.&nbsp;

The party had sent three preferences of which, the commission sent their confirmation on the ‘whistle’ symbol on Thursday.&nbsp;

“Whistle personally is very special to me. Usually, a whistle is blown at the beginning and end of any match. We have blown the whistle to win this match and end the rule SDF in Sikkim,” added Bhutia.

To up its ante against the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in Sikkim, footballer turned politician, Bhaichung Bhutia is all set to lead a day-long protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday.

To up its ante against the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) in Sikkim, footballer turned politician, Bhaichung Bhutia is all set to lead a day-long protest at Jantar Mantar on Monday. With just a few days to go for the assembly polls in Sikkim, the vice president of Hamro Sikkim Party, Bhutia will be leading a 20-member delegation of HSP members to Delhi. A protest will be put up in front of the Jantar Mantar against the SDF on several issues ranging from alleged corruption in the government, demand for tribal status for eleven communities of Sikkim and restoration of Nepali seats in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. “Corruption is a disease in our society today. The state of Sikkim is suffering from massive corruption. The government has no money but the individuals have become richer than the government. We are going to fight corruption in Sikkim,” said Bhutia. It is time to take a stand against corruption! #hamrosikkim #saynotocorruption pic.twitter.com/ICZMu8U2K0 — Bhaichung Bhutia (@bhaichung15) January 6, 2019 × However, political analysts feel that Bhutia has sounded the bugle for the upcoming polls in the state and such protests will further help the newly formed regional party gain more momentum. On the other hand, the Election Commission of India has allotted the ‘whistle’ sign as an election symbol to HSP. The party had sent three preferences of which, the commission sent their confirmation on the ‘whistle’ symbol on Thursday. “Whistle personally is very special to me. Usually, a whistle is blown at the beginning and end of any match. We have blown the whistle to win this match and end the rule SDF in Sikkim,” added Bhutia.

Bhaichung Bhutia to lead day-long protest at Jantar Mantar against SDF 

Hundreds of people including students and acitivists gathered in Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Tuesday to protest against the deaths of manual scavengers in sewers across the country.

The protestors raised slogans and waved banners with texts like&nbsp;"stop killing us".

One placard also read, "Eleven workers died in the sewers in seven days. 'Swachh Bharat'&nbsp;for whom?"

The relatives of thousands of manual scavengers who have died cleaning sewers with their bare hands were also at Jantar Mantar among the protestors.

The news agency Reuters quoted a mother of a manual scavenger saying that "I lost my only son."&nbsp;

"He went into the sewers and never came out. How long will these deaths continue?", She questioned.

Workers picking up human waste with bare hands and broomsticks are a common sight on railway tracks and stations across India and the recent deaths has sparked a wave of protest in the country.

About 1,800 sewers cleaners have asphyxiated to death in the last decade, says the Safai Karamchari Andolan (SKA), a group that is campaigning to eliminate the practice of workers entering underground conduits to unclog drains and remove waste with their bare hands.

Most of the roughly 160,000 workers involved in cleaning human waste are women, it added.

In 1993, India outlawed what it calls "manual scavenging", a practice that includes the barehanded cleaning of dry latrines, mostly by women and lowers castes.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Hundreds of people including students and acitivists gathered in Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Tuesday to protest against the deaths of manual scavengers in sewers across the country.

Hundreds of people including students and acitivists gathered in Delhi's Jantar Mantar on Tuesday to protest against the deaths of manual scavengers in sewers across the country. The protestors raised slogans and waved banners with texts like "stop killing us". One placard also read, "Eleven workers died in the sewers in seven days. 'Swachh Bharat' for whom?" The relatives of thousands of manual scavengers who have died cleaning sewers with their bare hands were also at Jantar Mantar among the protestors. The news agency Reuters quoted a mother of a manual scavenger saying that "I lost my only son." "He went into the sewers and never came out. How long will these deaths continue?", She questioned. Workers picking up human waste with bare hands and broomsticks are a common sight on railway tracks and stations across India and the recent deaths has sparked a wave of protest in the country. About 1,800 sewers cleaners have asphyxiated to death in the last decade, says the Safai Karamchari Andolan (SKA), a group that is campaigning to eliminate the practice of workers entering underground conduits to unclog drains and remove waste with their bare hands. Most of the roughly 160,000 workers involved in cleaning human waste are women, it added. In 1993, India outlawed what it calls "manual scavenging", a practice that includes the barehanded cleaning of dry latrines, mostly by women and lowers castes. (With inputs from news agencies)

Hundreds of people stage protest in Delhi against deaths of sewer cleaners

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi government, New Delhi Municipal Council and Delhi Police to stop all kinds of protest and assembling of people at Jantar Mantar.

NGT&#39;s order has come&nbsp;to reduce the noise pollution at the Jantar Mantar road.&nbsp;

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NGT directs Delhi Govt, NDMC &amp; Delhi Police Commissioner to stop all protest, assembling of ppl, public speeches etc at Jantar Mantar road.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/915923926043078656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;NGT has ordered the NDMC to remove all makeshift structure, loud speakers, and public address system from the Jantar Mantar road.&nbsp;

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NDMC is directed to remove all make shifts structures, loud speakers&amp; public address system from the said stretch of Jantar Mantar road: NGT
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/915924406521692160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

?NGT has ordered the NDMC to remove all makeshift structure, loud speakers, and public address system from the Jantar Mantar road

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi government, New Delhi Municipal Council and Delhi Police to stop all kinds of protest and assembling of people at Jantar Mantar. NGT's order has come to reduce the noise pollution at the Jantar Mantar road. NGT directs Delhi Govt, NDMC & Delhi Police Commissioner to stop all protest, assembling of ppl, public speeches etc at Jantar Mantar road. — ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2017 × NGT has ordered the NDMC to remove all makeshift structure, loud speakers, and public address system from the Jantar Mantar road. NDMC is directed to remove all make shifts structures, loud speakers& public address system from the said stretch of Jantar Mantar road: NGT — ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2017 ×

Stop protest at Jantar Mantar: NGT

The ripples of the ongoing economic blockade in India&#39;s northeastern state of Manipur were today felt in the national capital, with rival Manipuri and Naga groups staging protests over the tense law-and-order situation in the state which will go to polls in March.

While members of the Delhi Manipuri Society highlighted the &quot;humanitarian crisis&quot; due to the indefinite economic blockade imposed by the United Naga Council (UNC) since November 1, the Naga groups demanded imposition of President&#39;s Rule in the state.

The UNC had imposed the blockade against the creation of seven new districts in the landlocked state by bifurcating the existing ones.

&quot;It is a question of survival. The blockade is inhumane. People are facing extreme difficulties in terms of food, medicines, fuel. The essentials to lead a normal life are either absent or beyond the reach of the common man. Is the government scared of the UNC? Is there something called rule of law?&quot;, Delhi Manipuri Society vice-president Sangeeta asked.

A large number of Manipuri youths took part in the day-long sit-in at Jantar Mantar here with posters containing messages demanding an immediate end to the blockade.

Meanwhile, members of the Joint Naga Civil Societies demonstrated outside Manipur Bhawan alleging that &quot;Manipuri mobs backed by the state government&quot; had &quot;attacked&quot; Naga civilians after December 18.

&quot;We demand President&#39;s Rule because the law-and-order situation in Manipur is bad. New districts have been carved out undemocratically and UNC leaders are in jail. Nagas are not safe under the Manipuri security forces,&quot; Lakpachui Siro, convener of the committee, said.

(PTI)

Manipuri youths took part in the day-long sit-in at Jantar Mantar with posters containing messages demanding an end to the economic blockade

The ripples of the ongoing economic blockade in India's northeastern state of Manipur were today felt in the national capital, with rival Manipuri and Naga groups staging protests over the tense law-and-order situation in the state which will go to polls in March. While members of the Delhi Manipuri Society highlighted the "humanitarian crisis" due to the indefinite economic blockade imposed by the United Naga Council (UNC) since November 1, the Naga groups demanded imposition of President's Rule in the state. The UNC had imposed the blockade against the creation of seven new districts in the landlocked state by bifurcating the existing ones. "It is a question of survival. The blockade is inhumane. People are facing extreme difficulties in terms of food, medicines, fuel. The essentials to lead a normal life are either absent or beyond the reach of the common man. Is the government scared of the UNC? Is there something called rule of law?", Delhi Manipuri Society vice-president Sangeeta asked. A large number of Manipuri youths took part in the day-long sit-in at Jantar Mantar here with posters containing messages demanding an immediate end to the blockade. Meanwhile, members of the Joint Naga Civil Societies demonstrated outside Manipur Bhawan alleging that "Manipuri mobs backed by the state government" had "attacked" Naga civilians after December 18. "We demand President's Rule because the law-and-order situation in Manipur is bad. New districts have been carved out undemocratically and UNC leaders are in jail. Nagas are not safe under the Manipuri security forces," Lakpachui Siro, convener of the committee, said. (PTI)

India: Protest against Manipur's economic blockade in national capital