Education Protest – Internet Shutdown Claim Raises Fresh Tensions at Jantar Mantar Demonstration
Education Protest – Authorities and protest organisers remained at the centre of a fresh controversy on Thursday after the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) alleged that internet services had been suspended around Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where supporters have been holding a continuous sit-in. The party claimed the disruption had sparked concerns that security agencies could be preparing for another round of action against demonstrators. However, there was no immediate official confirmation regarding the alleged suspension of internet connectivity in the area.
CJP Alleges Internet Disruption Near Protest Site
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke raised the issue through a post on X, stating that internet services had stopped functioning around the protest venue. He questioned whether the development indicated plans for another police operation against those participating in the demonstration. His remarks came as hundreds of supporters continued their protest demanding action over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and broader reforms in the education sector.
Appeal to Security Personnel
In another social media message, Dipke urged police officers and paramilitary personnel deployed at Jantar Mantar to avoid using force against peaceful protesters. He appealed to security personnel not to follow what he described as unlawful instructions if they involved harming demonstrators. According to him, the situation represented an important test of responsibility for officials tasked with maintaining law and order during the ongoing agitation.
Protest Continues After Parliament March
The sit-in entered its third day after the July 20 ‘Sansad Chalo’ march, which witnessed clashes between protesters and the Delhi Police. During that demonstration, security personnel used batons and tear gas to stop marchers from advancing towards Parliament, citing security concerns. The incident led to sharp criticism from protest organisers, who alleged that excessive force had been used against participants.
Delhi Police, however, has consistently maintained that its actions were necessary after some protesters allegedly attempted to breach the security arrangements in place around the Parliament area. Authorities have defended the measures as essential to maintaining public order and protecting restricted zones.
Key Demands Behind the Agitation
The movement, which began on June 20, has focused on several demands related to the country’s examination system. Protesters are seeking greater accountability over alleged paper leak incidents and other examination irregularities. They are also calling for comprehensive education reforms, the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and financial assistance for families of students who allegedly died by suicide in connection with the examination controversy.
The organisers have maintained that the agitation is intended to highlight concerns about transparency and fairness in the country’s competitive examination process.
Sonam Wangchuk Sets Condition to End Hunger Strike
Meanwhile, environmentalist and activist Sonam Wangchuk, who joined the protest on June 28, remains on an indefinite hunger strike. On Wednesday, he said he would consider ending his fast if the Central government assured that no punitive measures or police cases would be initiated against students and young people who participated in the protests.
Wangchuk is currently undergoing treatment at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. He was shifted there from Safdarjung Hospital after directions issued by the Delhi High Court. His health continues to be closely monitored while discussions over the future course of the protest remain ongoing.
As the demonstration continues, attention is focused on whether fresh talks between protest representatives and the government can help ease tensions. At present, the claims regarding internet disruption and the possibility of further police action have added another layer of uncertainty to an already prolonged agitation