New Delhi: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) resumed its protest at Jantar Mantar after a tense day during its “Sansad Chalo March” in New Delhi, which saw thousands of supporters gather, clashes between protesters and police, and a meeting between CJP representatives and Union Health Minister JP Nadda.

The protest was organised over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET-UG paper leak issue. The CJP has demanded the resignation or removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after his earlier protest at Jantar Mantar, also announced that he would continue his hunger strike until certain conditions were met, including allowing representatives to raise their concerns with Members of Parliament.

Morning: Security tightened ahead of Parliament march

Ahead of the planned march, Delhi Police increased security around central Delhi and imposed restrictions in the New Delhi district. Authorities said permission had not been granted for the march towards Parliament.

Thousands of protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar, with the crowd increasing through the morning. Police deployed additional personnel and blocked routes leading towards Parliament.

The Delhi Metro also temporarily closed several stations, including Rajiv Chowk, Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat and Seva Teerth, as a precautionary measure.

As protesters attempted to move beyond the permitted protest area, clashes broke out between demonstrators and security personnel.

Police used barricades and later deployed tear gas and batons to control parts of the crowd. Officials said action was taken after an unlawful assembly formed and incidents of stone-pelting were reported.

The situation intensified as some protesters attempted to move towards Parliament. Police later allowed parts of the march to proceed under restrictions.

CJP leaders meet JP Nadda

Amid the protests, the government initiated talks with CJP representatives.

CJP spokespersons Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das met Union Health Minister JP Nadda and submitted their demands, including their demand related to Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

After the meeting, Saurav Das said Nadda assured them that the issues would be discussed at the appropriate level, but no immediate commitments were made.

CJP later said it was awaiting a response from the government.

Amit Shah reviews situation, Dharmendra Pradhan meets Home Minister

During the protests, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reportedly reviewed the law and order situation and held discussions with senior officials.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also met Shah amid the ongoing demonstrations.

The meetings came as the government faced pressure over the protest and demands raised by the CJP.

Police action and renewed protest at Jantar Mantar

Later in the day, police cleared parts of the protest area, dismantled tents and removed protesters from the spot.

However, CJP leaders and supporters returned to Jantar Mantar and continued their sit-in protest.

CJP spokespersons said the agitation would continue until their demands were addressed.

CJP leaders alleged that several protesters were injured during police action and announced medical and legal assistance for those affected. Ashutosh Ranka said the party team would visit injured protesters in hospitals and provide necessary support.

The organisation also appealed for medical supplies, portable lights, microphones and cleaning equipment at the protest site.

Delhi Police rejected allegations of excessive force and said action was taken to maintain law and order.

Sonam Wangchuk said he would continue his hunger strike until youth representatives were allowed to meet parliamentarians or their concerns were addressed. Safdarjung Hospital said his condition remained stable and that he was under medical observation.

By late evening, CJP leaders said the sit-in at Jantar Mantar would continue.

The protest remains centred around demands related to examination reforms, accountability over alleged paper leaks and action against officials responsible, while authorities continue reviewing the events of the day.