Indian activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26-day hunger strike on Friday, July 24, 2026, in New Delhi, India, after appeals from dozens of members of parliament, as the "Cockroach" protests continue to demand education reforms and government accountability. The movement, which started over a month ago, has become one of India's largest protests in recent years.

Cockroach Movement Demands Education Reforms

The protests, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, a satirical group, began after alleged leaks in some of India's most competitive entrance exams, and have since tapped into broader public anger over unemployment, government accountability, and economic opportunity. Thousands of protesters, including professionals, families, and activists, have taken to the streets in New Delhi and cities across the country, despite police using tear gas and batons to disperse marchers.

According to protest organizers, demonstrations will continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. They have called for demonstrations across the country in solidarity with students who were beaten by police during a march to Parliament on Monday, July 21, 2026, which drew thousands of people.

Government Response and Next Steps

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly addressed the protests for the first time, announcing fast-track courts to prosecute cases involving examination paper leaks and introducing legislation to crack down on exam paper leaks. However, protesters said these measures failed to address their demands for government accountability, examination reforms, and compensation for the families of students who died by suicide after exam paper leaks.

As the protests continue, Abhijeet Dipke, the founder of Cockroach Janta Party, said, "We won't let Sonam sir's sacrifice go in vain." The movement's next steps will be closely watched, as the government's response to the protests will likely determine the course of the demonstrations. With the education minister's resignation still a key demand, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold.