CJP protest enters second day as Dipke renews call for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation

The Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar entered its second day on June 21, with founder Abhijeet Dipke reiterating that the agitation would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns over the NEET-UG controversy.

Dipke and his supporters spent the night at the protest site after seeking permission to extend the demonstration beyond Saturday. Delhi Police, however, denied the request to prolong the protest, though demonstrators continued their sit-in and vowed to maintain pressure on the government.

Addressing supporters on Sunday, Dipke appealed to students appearing for the NEET-UG re-test to focus on their examination and join the protest afterwards. He said the movement was aimed at seeking accountability over alleged examination irregularities and paper leak concerns.

The overnight protest follows a large demonstration held at Jantar Mantar on Saturday, where students and supporters gathered to demand action on alleged paper leaks and greater transparency in examination processes.

Protesters used plates and spoons as symbolic instruments during the demonstration after Dipke had earlier urged supporters to bring "thali" and "chammach" to the venue.

The demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation remains central to the agitation. Dipke has repeatedly stated that the protest will not be withdrawn until the minister steps down. Protesters argue that accountability must be fixed for controversies surrounding national examinations and recruitment tests.

During the sit-in, Dipke also alleged that basic facilities at the protest site, including water and electricity, had been disrupted. He urged authorities to ensure access to essential amenities for demonstrators gathered at Jantar Mantar.

The protest is part of a broader campaign launched by the CJP over examination-related issues. The group has organised demonstrations in multiple cities and has announced plans to continue nationwide protests in the coming weeks.

With the NEET-UG re-test being conducted on June 21 under heightened security arrangements, the Jantar Mantar protest has emerged as one of the most visible public demonstrations linked to the examination controversy.