News for 'Dharmendra Pradhan'

Cockroach Janta Party founder says all accounts, website taken down

Cockroach Janta Party founder says all accounts, website taken down

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) alleges a crackdown, reporting hacking incidents and account takedowns across its social media platforms following a campaign against the Union Education Minister.

Will Modi Appeal To Sonam Wangchuk To End His Fast?

Will Modi Appeal To Sonam Wangchuk To End His Fast?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

As Sonam Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike entered the 17th day, concerns over the famed environmentalist and educationist's rapidly deteriorating health intensified, prompting appeals from political leaders, celebrities and social media urging him to end his fast.

Mumbai cops register 13 FIRs in five days for staging protests without permission; 400 booked (Eds: Attaching photos)

Mumbai cops register 13 FIRs in five days for staging protests without permission; 400 booked (Eds: Attaching photos)

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

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'My work is in Maharashtra': Fadnavis rules out Delhi shift

'My work is in Maharashtra': Fadnavis rules out Delhi shift

Rediff.com5 days ago

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed rumours of his shift to national politics, asserting his commitment to the state. He also commented on the NEET paper leak issue, supporting the Union government's actions and criticising Uddhav Thackeray's remarks.

CJP urges Modi to 'break silence', farmers to join protest

CJP urges Modi to 'break silence', farmers to join protest

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)'s protest at Jantar Mantar, demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities, has entered its 15th day, garnering support from AAP MP Sanjay Singh and CPI(M) MP John Brittas. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk continues his hunger strike, while a student leader from AISA was hospitalised after her condition turned critical.

When Rahul, Priyanka Gheraoed Modi's Home

When Rahul, Priyanka Gheraoed Modi's Home

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

On July 21, 2026 in New Delhi, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, D K Shivakumar, V D Satheesan, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, K C Venugopal, Pawan Khera and others staged a protest at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence, demanding the resignations of Modi, Home Minister Amit A Shah and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

After govt no-show, Delhi HC defers PIL over Wangchuk's worsening health

After govt no-show, Delhi HC defers PIL over Wangchuk's worsening health

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court is set to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the health of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar. Wangchuk joined a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party, demanding the Union Education Minister's resignation over alleged NEET irregularities. The PIL seeks intervention from authorities and a discussion with Wangchuk, even suggesting force-feeding.

Delhi Police Investigates Drone Footage Of Parliament Street Protest

Delhi Police Investigates Drone Footage Of Parliament Street Protest

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Delhi Police has launched an investigation into an alleged unauthorised drone operation that captured footage of protesters at Parliament Street. The New Delhi district is a highly sensitive area requiring prior permission for drone flights, and legal action will be taken for violations. Thousands had gathered to protest alleged examination irregularities and demand the Education Minister's resignation, leading to clashes with security personnel.

Ministers helping break my fast was our victory: Wangchuk

Ministers helping break my fast was our victory: Wangchuk

Rediff.com4 days ago

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk emphasised the enduring relevance of Mahatma Gandhi's non-violent resistance, stating, "His path is as relevant today as it was 100 years ago. This experiment is successful today."

NEET paper leak: NTA fires 47 officials, promises overhaul

NEET paper leak: NTA fires 47 officials, promises overhaul

Rediff.com6 days ago

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has terminated 47 officials and plans legal action following the NEET paper leak controversy. This comes amidst widespread protests and demands for the Education Minister's resignation, as the NTA initiates a major overhaul and recruitment drive to strengthen its operations.

Dia Mirza Takes On Modi: 'You Have Said Nothing'

Dia Mirza Takes On Modi: 'You Have Said Nothing'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Actor Dia Mirza has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's delayed and unempathetic response to ongoing student protests concerning alleged NEET exam irregularities and paper leaks. She highlighted his focus on fast-track courts over addressing the emotional distress of affected students and parents.

Govt defends video-recording of Jantar Mantar protests

Govt defends video-recording of Jantar Mantar protests

Rediff.com6 days ago

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta has argued that video-recording of the ongoing CJP-led protest against the NEET paper leak at Jantar Mantar is in 'legitimate state interest' for security reasons, while petitioners allege 'continuous, indiscriminate and intrusive surveillance'.

Rahul's 'Pariksha pe Charcha' dig at Modi over NEET paper leak

Rahul's 'Pariksha pe Charcha' dig at Modi over NEET paper leak

Rediff.com17 May 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the NEET paper leak controversy, demanding the sacking of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and questioning the government's handling of the situation.

Wangchuk begins hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, khap leaders join CJP protest

Wangchuk begins hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, khap leaders join CJP protest

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Before sitting on the fast, Wangchuk, along with CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, visited Rajghat and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

LS deadlock ends, parties agree to discuss anti-paper leak bill on Tuesday

LS deadlock ends, parties agree to discuss anti-paper leak bill on Tuesday

Rediff.com4 days ago

The Lok Sabha stalemate is expected to conclude as Speaker Om Birla has secured an agreement from all political parties to discuss the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill 2026. This bill proposes stricter punishments, including up to 10 years in jail and a Rs 50 lakh fine, for paper leak offences, following recent nationwide student protests over the NEET fiasco.

Uddhav, Raj unite over NEET row, announce march in Mumbai on July 26

Uddhav, Raj unite over NEET row, announce march in Mumbai on July 26

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS president Raj Thackeray have announced a joint 'morcha' (protest march) in Mumbai on July 26 to express solidarity with students protesting the NEET paper leak and alleged police atrocities.

I will likely be arrested at Delhi airport: Cockroach Janta Party founder

I will likely be arrested at Delhi airport: Cockroach Janta Party founder

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party, expresses concerns about potential arrest upon his return to India, but remains committed to protesting against the Union Education Minister over alleged shortcomings in the education system.

On day 13 of fast, Sonam Wangchuk warns against 'forced removal'

On day 13 of fast, Sonam Wangchuk warns against 'forced removal'

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has stated his hunger has 'stabilised' on the 13th day of his indefinite fast, asserting his constitutional right to protest should not be violated by attempts to remove him from the site. He continues to support the Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) demands for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and government accountability over alleged examination irregularities, as well as an early resolution for Ladakh's issues.

Police Use Brutal Force Against CJP Protestors

Police Use Brutal Force Against CJP Protestors

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Glimpses from the police action against the Cockroach Janta party' march to Parliament on Monday.

Wangchuk's hunger strike enters Day 6, Dipke calls for solidarity fast

Wangchuk's hunger strike enters Day 6, Dipke calls for solidarity fast

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

As activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike at Jantar Mantar entered the sixth day on Friday, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said he appeared "far weaker and more exhausted" and urged supporters across the country to observe a one-day fast in solidarity with the protest.

Mumbai lawyers offer free legal support to student protesters

Mumbai lawyers offer free legal support to student protesters

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Bombay Bar Association and senior lawyer Satish Maneshinde have strongly criticised the use of police force against students protesting the NEET leak issue in Mumbai. Maneshinde has offered pro bono legal assistance to any student facing legal action, while the BBA emphasised the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and dissent.

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Jantar Mantar protest brings together Boomers and Gen Z

Rediff.com7 days ago

The protest at Jantar Mantar against alleged paper leaks and irregularities in public examinations, initially led by students, has now entered its seventh week and is increasingly drawing support from senior citizens, who view it as a fight for the nation's future and education reforms.

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

SC shields student protesters; mulls SIT probe into police excesses

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Supreme Court has issued interim directions regarding nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, ordering the release of minor student protesters without criminal records and directing states to preserve all digital evidence. The court also called for a fair and independent investigation into allegations of police excesses against students, while also acknowledging concerns for injured police personnel.

Yuvraj Singh urges dialogue and harmony amid NEET protests

Yuvraj Singh urges dialogue and harmony amid NEET protests

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh has appealed for peace and dialogue amid the nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak, urging people to work towards an amicable solution.

Govt softens stand, changes course on CJP protests

Govt softens stand, changes course on CJP protests

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Indian government has significantly altered its approach to the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led agitation over the NEET paper leak, moving from dismissal to calibrated political engagement, including promises of fast-track courts, a new anti-paper leak law, and negotiations with key protest leaders.

Delhi police await official nod to withdraw NEET protest FIRs

Delhi police await official nod to withdraw NEET protest FIRs

Rediff.com5 days ago

Delhi Police sources indicate they will await official communication before withdrawing cases against NEET paper leak protesters, despite the Centre's assurance. While 15 FIRs are registered, the police confirm that the broader conspiracy investigation into the July 20 violence will continue, examining evidence and identifying those involved.

Assam Minister Faces Heat Over Daughter's Participation In CJP Protest

Assam Minister Faces Heat Over Daughter's Participation In CJP Protest

Rediff.com5 days ago

The controversy has embarrassed the ruling coalition because Keshab Mahanta is one of the senior-most leaders of the Asom Gana Parishad, an NDA constituent.

CJP founder says Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly dragged away, cops cite HC order

CJP founder says Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly dragged away, cops cite HC order

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been shifted to a hospital from Jantar Mantar after a 20-day hunger strike, with Delhi Police stating the move was in compliance with High Court directions and medical advice due to his deteriorating health. Protesters, however, alleged he was forcibly removed against his will.

Gen Z Protests: 'Biggest Blow Has Been To The Prime Minister'

Gen Z Protests: 'Biggest Blow Has Been To The Prime Minister'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'After more than 12 years in power, he has been forced to retreat under public pressure. The education minister's resignation is the biggest political climbdown of his government so far.'

'Gen Z Has Shown How The Government's Arrogance Can Be Broken'

'Gen Z Has Shown How The Government's Arrogance Can Be Broken'

Rediff.com5 days ago

What remained at Shivaji Park was not Gen Z anger but of momentum -- a generation that had, in its own telling, made an emperor bow, and intends to keep singing and meme-ing about it.

Parliament to grill Instagram, other social media platforms on user privacy

Parliament to grill Instagram, other social media platforms on user privacy

Rediff.com3 days ago

An Indian Parliamentary panel has summoned major social media platforms like Meta, Google, X, and Snapchat, along with MeitY and Home Affairs officials, to discuss the regulation of digital platforms. The meeting, scheduled for August 3, will focus on user privacy, public order, and the platforms' role in recent protests.

Harbhajan Singh seeks united push to end protests over NEET paper leak

Harbhajan Singh seeks united push to end protests over NEET paper leak

Rediff.com7 days ago

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh on Friday welcomed activist Sonam Wangchuk's decision to end his 26-day hunger strike, saying dialogue and trust are better than confrontation to resolve the crisis pertaining to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak.

Bindra Calls For Confident Education System Amid NEET Row

Bindra Calls For Confident Education System Amid NEET Row

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Olympic gold-medallist Abhinav Bindra has called for an education system that "inspires confidence" and rewards merit, amidst widespread protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam. The protests, which have seen student marches and support from activists like Sonam Wangchuk, highlight the demand for transparency and fairness in India's examination system.

Mumbai: Pedestrian opens police van, detained protesters escape

Mumbai: Pedestrian opens police van, detained protesters escape

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A viral video from Mumbai shows a man opening the latch of a police van, allowing detained student protesters to escape during a demonstration in Chembur. The incident occurred amidst a larger student protest against prohibitory orders, where hundreds were initially detained. Another video features a woman criticising police conduct and demanding the Union Education Minister's resignation. Mumbai police have registered multiple cases and booked hundreds in connection with recent protests.

Salman Khan: 'My Heart Goes Out To The Students'

Salman Khan: 'My Heart Goes Out To The Students'

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

'Paper leak is a very serious issue, and I am glad to know and see that the kids of our country have come together for a better educational system, and their parents supported them.'

Woman booked for Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam slogans at Bengaluru protest

Woman booked for Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam slogans at Bengaluru protest

Rediff.com4 days ago

Bengaluru Police have registered an FIR against an unidentified woman for allegedly displaying placards supporting jailed activists Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam during a student protest at Freedom Park. The incident occurred on Friday, with police alleging the placards were provocative and intended to incite unrest. The complaint was filed after CCTV footage review, and a case has been registered under Section 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

Amit Shah ordered use of force against students, he must quit: Dipke

Amit Shah ordered use of force against students, he must quit: Dipke

Rediff.com1 days ago

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke has demanded Union Home Minister Amit Shah's resignation, alleging that orders to use force against students during the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" march over the NEET exam paper leak must have come from Shah himself. Dipke also criticised the appointment of Pralhad Joshi as the new Education Minister and dismissed Yoga guru Ramdev's comments on Gen Z.

Govt is cruel for ignoring Wangchuk, says Dipke as fast enters 18th day

Govt is cruel for ignoring Wangchuk, says Dipke as fast enters 18th day

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's health is deteriorating on the 18th day of his hunger strike, with his weight dropping significantly and vital signs requiring continuous monitoring. The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has accused the government of 'cruelty' for its refusal to engage in dialogue regarding alleged NEET irregularities, intensifying calls for accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Cockroach Janata Party swings into action, demands Modi Minister's resignation

Cockroach Janata Party swings into action, demands Modi Minister's resignation

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The CJP's rapid rise on social media reflects growing digital dissent and youth frustration with issues like unemployment and exam-paper leaks.

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

There are strong possibilities of some Union ministers being sent to take organisational roles in the BJP and party office-bearers being inducted into the Modi ministry.