PM Modi's First Direct Response to the Protests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday issued his first direct statement since the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests began, announcing that the government has decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in examination paper leaks. In a post on X, Modi wrote, "Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth! We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard. Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared."

Government's Broader Response

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, briefing journalists after an NDA parliamentary party meeting, said the Prime Minister told MPs that the government had acted immediately after reports of the leak surfaced, with 13 people already arrested and jailed. Modi had earlier in the week described the alleged leak as a "grave sin." The government has pointed to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which criminalises paper leaks and provides for three to five years' imprisonment along with fines up to Rs 10 lakh for those found guilty.

CJP Says the Announcement Changes Nothing

Despite the government's announcement, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke made clear the protest would not end. He said demonstrations would continue until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns and government representatives come to Jantar Mantar to speak directly with protesting students. The CJP's core demands remain threefold: Pradhan's resignation, the withdrawal of legal cases against students detained during the July 20 protests, and a direct address from the Prime Minister on the issue.

Opposition Calls the Promises 'Hollow'

Opposition leaders dismissed the fast-track court announcement as insufficient, pointing to a pattern of unresolved past paper leak cases and demanding greater government accountability. Critics argue that while the announcement is being projected as a major step by the government, it sidesteps the students' central demand for ministerial accountability.

Backdrop: Protest Enters Fourth Day Amid Violence

Modi's statement comes as protests linked to the CJP movement entered their fourth day, following violent clashes on July 20 when a planned march to Parliament, timed to coincide with the opening of the Monsoon Session, was met with lathi charges and tear gas. According to Delhi Police, more than 118 police personnel were injured in the clashes, while around 60 protesters also sustained injuries. Police have alleged the protest was "hijacked" by outside elements engaging in stone-pelting and vandalism, a claim that has been disputed by independent fact-checkers regarding specific incidents.

Wangchuk's Fast Drew National Attention

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, whose participation in an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar drew widespread public attention, had been fasting for over two weeks before the government engaged with the protesters. His health concerns became a significant factor in escalating national attention on the movement.