The founder of India's viral Cockroach Janta Party arrived in New Delhi on Saturday to lead a protest against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, marking the first time the country's largest online youth movement has taken to the streets. Abhijeet Dipke, 30, who has lived in the United States for the past two years, had expressed concerns that his family and friends feared he could be arrested upon his return. Dozens of police officers gathered near Jantar Mantar in central New Delhi, barricading surrounding roads as protesters chanted slogans demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Government Crackdown and Legal Challenge
Modi's government has blocked the movement's X account in India, a decision the Cockroach Janta Party has challenged in a Delhi court. Senior cabinet minister Kiren Rijiju accused the group of seeking followers from Pakistan and the "anti-India gang." The group, which has amassed roughly 22 million Instagram followers since launching in mid-May, represents the largest online expression of dissent against Modi's 12-year-old Hindu nationalist rule.
Youth Unemployment and Exam Leaks Fuel Discontent
The movement is fueled by persistently high youth unemployment and recurring leaks of examination papers that threaten to derail the careers of millions of students. India has nearly 400 million people aged 15 to 29, and generating non-farm jobs for them remains a significant challenge despite rapid economic growth. The urban youth jobless rate was nearly 14% in April, and many educated young people are stuck in low-paid or insecure jobs that do not match their skills, according to economists.
Political Impact and Analysts' Views
Political analysts say the group's popularity has begun to dent Modi's image, despite his party's recent victories in key state elections. Wider frustration grows over rising fuel prices and gas shortages brought by the Iran war. Police used loudspeakers to direct people to Saturday's designated protest site. "This is a peaceful movement for the youth of the nation," said movement spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka. Dipke is "ready for a long and big day in India's politics," Ranka added.
