On July 20, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her concerns regarding the government’s handling of student protests related to the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. She accused the Centre of employing tear gas against the students rather than engaging in discussions about pressing educational issues. Gandhi highlighted the need for dialogue in Parliament concerning the education policy, referring to the protesting students as “our children.”

Her statements were made outside Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session, which was characterised by disruptions. There were numerous calls from the Opposition for discussions on the NEET-UG paper leak and allegations surrounding misappropriated donations at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust in Ayodhya. These events triggered repeated adjournments in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

The Monsoon Session is set to run until August 13, with Parliament expected to reconvene on Tuesday at 11 am after the current day’s adjournment.

Protests Intensify in the National Capital

The protests in New Delhi saw a surge in intensity, particularly from the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which aimed to march to Parliament demanding accountability regarding the alleged examination irregularities. Reports indicated that police personnel were injured while taking action to disperse the demonstrators near Parliament Street.

A Sub Inspector of Delhi Police reported that their personnel were targeted by rocks thrown by protestors as they tried to enforce barricades. The CJP claimed that their founder, Abhijeet Dipke, was detained during the protest. In response, the chief spokesperson for the party, Saurav Das, alleged on social media that police had engaged in excessive force against peaceful demonstrators.

However, the Delhi Police refuted claims of Dipke’s detention, labelling the allegations as “entirely false.” An official post on social media asserted that Dipke was “available on stage,” countering the claims made by his party.

Previous Hunger Strike of CJP’s Founder

Earlier on the same day, Abhijeet Dipke concluded an indefinite hunger strike at the behest of activist Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk, who had been hospitalised at Safdarjung Hospital, undertook a 21-day fast for various causes, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about educational reforms.

In light of the escalating protests, Delhi Police resorted to a moderate lathi charge to manage protesters who attempted to advance from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament. There was an increase in security measures across the New Delhi district to maintain public order, with strict prohibitory orders established under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

The developments indicate a complex situation at the intersection of educational policy and civic action, as the government faces mounting pressure from various factions. As both the Opposition and student groups continue to demand accountability, the response from the Centre remains a focal point of discussion in the national discourse.

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