Archive · 29 Jul 2026
Muslims' Ambivalence Over Cockroach Protests Amid CAA Wounds
There have been big protests in India recently, especially in Delhi, about question paper leaks and problems in the education system.
A group called the Cockroach Janta Party started these protests.
Many young Muslims who protested against a law called the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) a few years ago are feeling unsure about joining these new protests.
Some think the new protests should focus only on education and not talk about communal issues, while others feel that the protests should also address the problems faced by Muslims.
Some young Muslims went to the protests because they care about education, but others stayed away because they are worried about being targeted by the government.
The protests have led to some changes, like the resignation of the education minister, but many young Muslims still feel that their concerns are not being fully addressed.
Protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party focused on question paper leaks and education reform, with mixed participation from young Muslims.
Many young Muslims feel ambivalent about joining the protests due to past experiences with the CAA protests and police crackdowns.
Some protesters argue that the movement should focus solely on education to avoid divisive issues, while critics believe communal issues should be addressed.
The protests led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan but have been criticized for not addressing the incarceration of political prisoners like Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam.
Police actions, including arrests of protesters and their family members, have heightened fears among the Muslim community about participating in the protests.
- Who
- Young Muslims, students, and activists, including Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam
- What
- Protests against question paper leaks and education reform, with underlying communal tensions
- When
- June 6 - July 25, 2024
- Where
- Primarily Jantar Mantar, Delhi, with protests in Kolkata and Goa
- Why
- To demand accountability for question paper leaks, education reform, and address communal issues
Protest Participation
Caution and Criticism
Inclusivity and Focus
Protest Participation
Protesters argue that the movement should focus on education and unity, setting aside communal issues for broader support.
Caution and Criticism
Critics believe the protest should address communal issues and the incarceration of political prisoners to be truly inclusive.
Leadership and Representation
Protest Participation
Supporters of the protest appreciate the leadership's efforts to keep the focus on education and avoid divisive topics.
Caution and Criticism
Critics feel the leadership lacks clarity and spine, and should include Muslim leaders and address communal issues.
- Protest Name
- Cockroach Janta Party Protests
- Primary Issue
- Question Paper Leaks and Education Reform
- Key Figures
- Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Sonam Wangchuk, Abhijeet Dipke
- Protest Duration
- June 6 - July 25, 2024
- Key Locations
- Jantar Mantar, Delhi; Kolkata; Goa
- Resignation Achieved
- Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
- Police Actions
- Arrests of protesters, including family members of volunteers