India: Protesters of the “Cockroach” movement rally in Delhi

Thousands of protesters in India gathered yesterday in Delhi and attempted to march to Parliament as part of the Gen Z “Cockroach” movement.

The police had banned the march and, when the protesters attempted to break through the cordon to proceed, officers attacked them with batons and tear gas.

Saurav Das, spokesperson for the Cockroach People’s Party, accused the authorities of “violently suppressing” “peaceful protesters.” Delhi Police stated that the march had not been granted permission and that the restrictions were necessary to maintain order and security around Parliament during the monsoon session, which began on Monday.

The movement, which has been active since May, was named “Cockroach” after the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court compared unemployed young people to cockroaches.

The protesters are demonstrating against unemployment and corruption and are calling for the removal of the Minister of Education following examination paper leaks.

The leaks repeatedly involved questions from major entrance examinations for medical schools and public sector jobs, provoking public outrage. The movement drew even greater attention when activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was on a hunger strike, was forcibly taken to hospital by police on Saturday.

The Gen Z movement, which has been active since May, was named “Cockroach” after the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court compared unemployed young people to cockroaches.

Πηγή: Associated Press