Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-day hunger strike as "Cockroach" protests continue to demand education reforms and government accountability.
Sonam Wangchuk ended a 26-day hunger strike on Friday, providing a central rallying point for one of India's largest youth-led protest movements in recent years. The "Cockroach" protests began over a month ago, sparked by alleged leaks in competitive university entrance exams. While Wangchuk concluded his fast following negotiations with federal ministers, rioters vowed to remain in the streets until Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns. The movement, spearheaded by the satirical Cockroach Janta Party, has tapped into broader public frustration regarding unemployment and economic opportunity. Although the administration announced the creation of fast-track courts to prosecute examination paper leaks and pledged new legislation to crack down on future leaks, the response has not fully satisfied the demonstrators. Protesters are seeking comprehensive reforms and compensation for families of students who died by suicide due to exam issues. Despite police using tear gas and batons to disperse marchers, the movement continues to spread across major cities, showing that the public remains committed to demanding greater government accountability.