News for 'political activist'

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

The rise and fall of Dharmendra Pradhan

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Dharmendra Pradhan's political career faced an unexpected jolt as he resigned as Education Minister following nationwide protests over the NEET paper leak, marking a significant departure from the government's initial dismissive response to the agitation.

CJP claims first victory, says protests to continue at Jantar Mantar

CJP claims first victory, says protests to continue at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) celebrated Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, calling it their first victory in the ongoing protest against the alleged NEET paper leak. Led by Abhijeet Dipke, the CJP vowed to continue their agitation until demands for compensation for student suicide victims and action against those responsible for the leak and police excesses are met.

Wangchuk's health worsens further as fast enters 15th day

Wangchuk's health worsens further as fast enters 15th day

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has deteriorated significantly on the 15th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, where the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is protesting alleged examination irregularities. Wangchuk's blood pressure has dropped and he has lost 7.8 kg, while the protest is drawing support from political leaders and public intellectuals.

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

'Goes against India's sovereignty': Govt backs ban on 'Satluj'

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

A central government committee has upheld the ban on the Diljit Dosanjh-starrer film Satluj, citing concerns over India's sovereignty and integrity, sparking political debate in Punjab.

Dharmendra Pradhan says resigned to keep 'anti-national forces' at bay

Dharmendra Pradhan says resigned to keep 'anti-national forces' at bay

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from his post, stating he sent his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to prevent 'anti-national forces' from exploiting the situation arising from widespread protests over examination irregularities.

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Why Congress Is Suspicious About CJP

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

A Congress spokesperson, quoted in media reports, summed up the party's thinking by saying, 'Whenever BJP is in trouble on the ground, a new 'apolitical' or 'alternative' party appears with the same ideology and the same backers.'

Assam to release NEET protestors, withdraw cases

Assam to release NEET protestors, withdraw cases

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The Assam government has decided to withdraw all police cases registered against individuals involved in protests concerning the NEET question paper leak and to release those arrested or detained during these demonstrations, citing the need for systemic reforms in the education ecosystem.

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.

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

'Not Sonam Wangchuk': Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' remark sparks storm

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Aamir Khan's comments that his 3 Idiots character Phunsukh Wangdu was not based on Sonam Wangchuk has triggered reactions from politicians, activists and social media users, with some accusing the actor of distancing himself from the educationist, who is currently on a hunger strike.

Sonam Wangchuk writes to govt, offers to end hunger strike if...

Sonam Wangchuk writes to govt, offers to end hunger strike if...

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has stated he will end his indefinite hunger strike if the Centre provides an unequivocal assurance that no punitive or retaliatory action will be taken against students and youth who participated in protests against alleged examination irregularities.

Wangchuk loses 8.2 kg as fast enters 16th day; 'lives at stake', says Dipke

Wangchuk loses 8.2 kg as fast enters 16th day; 'lives at stake', says Dipke

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has significantly deteriorated on the 16th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, protesting alleged examination irregularities. His blood glucose and weight have dropped, prompting calls from the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and political leaders like AAP's Atishi and CPI(M) MPs for government intervention and accountability.

CJP Protest: The Rise Of Fearless Youth

CJP Protest: The Rise Of Fearless Youth

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

On camera, youngsters gave their names, where they'd come from, where they were studying or working - and then proceeded to criticize Modi. On camera, they held up posters mocking Modi, points out Jyoti Punwani.

Kerala rains: Eight dead, several missing; more than 5,000 evacuated

Kerala rains: Eight dead, several missing; more than 5,000 evacuated

Rediff.com6 days ago

Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan on Sunday said that eight people have died, an equal number are missing and 13 were injured in the previous day's heavy rains which caused property damage, landslides and waterlogging in many parts of the state.

Govt softens stand, changes course on CJP protests

Govt softens stand, changes course on CJP protests

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

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.

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.

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.

From Courtroom Remark To Street Protests

From Courtroom Remark To Street Protests

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Dialogue must be encouraged rather than adoption of hardline stands, violence and use of force, recommends Biswajit Dasgupta.

Sonam Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge from Safdarjung to join Parl march

Sonam Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge from Safdarjung to join Parl march

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Activist Sonam Wangchuk's vital parameters are stable, but his blood parameters require close clinical observation at Safdarjung Hospital. He is under continuous medical management by a multidisciplinary team following his forcible admission after a 21-day hunger strike protesting NEET irregularities.

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Union minister J P Nadda on Wednesday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of playing politics over the NEET paper leak and urged the Opposition to allow an "intensive" discussion on the issue in Parliament to find a "permanent solution" to the problem, instead of indulging in a blame game.

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

They are not worried of Wangchuk's health...: Oppn slams govt

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Opposition leaders across party lines have condemned the forced removal of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from the Jantar Mantar protest site in Delhi, accusing the BJP-led central government of undermining democratic freedoms, curbing dissent, and choosing force over dialogue.

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Won't spare those...: Modi's message to youth amid protests

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced stringent measures, including the establishment of fast-track courts, to combat exam paper leaks and protect the future of India's youth, following widespread protests over the NEET paper leak.

Centre forms review panel to examine 'Satluj' OTT removal

Centre forms review panel to examine 'Satluj' OTT removal

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has formed a three-member review committee to investigate the removal of the film "Satluj" from the ZEE5 OTT platform. The film, which depicts the life of activist Jaswant Singh Khalra during Punjab's turbulent 1990s, was briefly available before being taken down, sparking criticism from political parties and Sikh bodies.

CJP calls for nationwide protest on Friday, rejects govt talks offer again

CJP calls for nationwide protest on Friday, rejects govt talks offer again

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has reiterated its demand for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement on fast-track courts for paper leak cases does not address accountability.

How CJI's cockroach remark led to youth movement that claimed a minister

How CJI's cockroach remark led to youth movement that claimed a minister

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

A derogatory 'cockroach' remark by Chief Justice Surya Kant during a Supreme Court hearing inadvertently sparked a nationwide student movement, transforming an insult into a powerful symbol of protest that led to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

CJP stir enters Day 19: Wangchuk loses 7 kg, AISA member hospitalised

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's condition deteriorated further on Wednesday, with doctors reporting that he has lost more than seven kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast 11 days ago.

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.com30 Jul 2026

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.

Monsoon session: Controversial bills, NEET Leak, Ram temple row set to dominate

Monsoon session: Controversial bills, NEET Leak, Ram temple row set to dominate

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

The Indian government and opposition are preparing for a contentious Monsoon Session of Parliament, with key issues including the Constitution Amendment Bill on delimitation and women's reservation, the alleged NEET paper leak, and a row over Ram temple donations set to spark heated debates.

'Stop, these are our sons and daughters': Sonia slams govt

'Stop, these are our sons and daughters': Sonia slams govt

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi has launched a scathing attack on the Modi government, accusing it of responding to student demands for accountability and educational reforms with 'cowardice and wanton cruelty,' treating them as 'enemies of the nation.' She further alleged that the government has degraded India's education landscape and routinely chooses violence over dialogue.

Mumbai woman stops police van carrying protesters, goes viral

Mumbai woman stops police van carrying protesters, goes viral

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

A young woman, identified as Rhiya, became a symbol of Mumbai's solidarity protests over the NEET paper leak, captured in a viral image standing with outstretched arms to stop a police van amidst heavy rain, condemning alleged police brutality against agitators in Delhi.

Iran Begin World Cup Campaign Amid Diaspora Protests in LA

Iran Begin World Cup Campaign Amid Diaspora Protests in LA

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran launched their World Cup campaign in Los Angeles amid protests by Iranian-Americans, highlighting deep divisions over Tehran's government even as Team Melli drew passionate support from fans in the stands.

Govt, CJP to discuss education reforms after 4 weeks

Govt, CJP to discuss education reforms after 4 weeks

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has ended its 36-day protest at Jantar Mantar over the NEET issue after Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and the government accepting all their demands. The agreement includes compensation for suicide victims' families, withdrawal of FIRs, and future discussions on examination system reforms.

Pradhan's resignation not everything, protests will continue: Student groups

Pradhan's resignation not everything, protests will continue: Student groups

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Student organisations across India celebrated the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, attributing it to their nationwide protests against alleged NEET irregularities. While welcoming the move as a victory, groups like NSUI, AISA, and SFI affirmed their commitment to continue agitations until broader demands for accountability, transparency, and education reforms, including scrapping the NTA and NEP, are met.

Activist Anjali Damania Justifies AI Use in Godman Case Amidst Controversy

Activist Anjali Damania Justifies AI Use in Godman Case Amidst Controversy

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Activist Anjali Damania defends her use of AI to analyse call data records of arrested godman Ashok Kharat, amidst opposition scrutiny and allegations of illegal activity.

Why India's Youth Anger Exploded

Why India's Youth Anger Exploded

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

The failure of the State when it directly affects our lives, through a corrupt exam system, has produced this current anger, points out Aakar Patel.

Hyderabad teacher sacked for asking students to recite religious verses

Hyderabad teacher sacked for asking students to recite religious verses

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

A private school in Hyderabad has terminated a primary teacher after she assigned Islamic religious verses as homework, sparking controversy and prompting police intervention to ensure communal harmony. The incident led to protests and demands for action against the school from political and religious groups.

Will get back to you, says govt as CJP insists on Pradhan's resignation

Will get back to you, says govt as CJP insists on Pradhan's resignation

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Amidst escalating protests over the NEET paper leak, the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has declared Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation 'non-negotiable' and is also demanding 1 crore compensation for families affected by suicides linked to the exam cancellation.

CJP protest: Wangchuk loses 6 kg as fast enters 8th day

CJP protest: Wangchuk loses 6 kg as fast enters 8th day

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party's (CJP) protest at the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and government accountability over alleged examination irregularities, entered its 16th day on Sunday, while it was the eighth day of an indefinite hunger strike announced by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has lost around six kg since beginning the fast.

'Our Rotten-To-The-Core Education System Needs Shock Treatment'

'Our Rotten-To-The-Core Education System Needs Shock Treatment'

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

'Let the world know that India's Gen Z has now moved out of their social media world and is ready to face the lathis, the tear gas shells or the spiked-dandas of cops.'

Quit Before July 21: Mamata Tells Rebels

Quit Before July 21: Mamata Tells Rebels

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

'Those under pressure from the BJP and the police, or due to court cases, the ED, CBI, CID, local police officers, or the STF, I request that you make your decision before July 21.'

'I Was Protesting For Every Student In The Country'

'I Was Protesting For Every Student In The Country'

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

'I went to protest because whatever is going on in our country is not right.'