More than 118 police personnel were injured and around 70 protesters were detained after the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) ‘Sansad Chalo’ protest turned violent in the New Delhi area on Monday, according to Delhi Police.

In an official statement, police alleged that protesters displayed “unruly, aggressive and violent behaviour” despite repeated warnings and directions to disperse. Authorities said demonstrators violated prohibitory orders that were in force in the area.

Police allege attacks on personnel and damage to public property

Delhi Police claimed protesters pelted stones and other objects at security personnel, attempted to breach barricades and vandalised police as well as other government vehicles. The statement also alleged that public property was damaged during the clashes, creating a serious law and order situation.

According to police, more than 118 personnel sustained injuries, including several senior officers such as the Special Commissioner of Police, Joint Commissioner of Police, Additional Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police and Assistant Commissioner of Police. Several women police personnel were also among those injured.

Around 60 protesters also reported injured

Police said around 60 protesters were also reported to have suffered injuries during the confrontation. It added that the medico-legal examination (MLC) of the remaining injured police personnel was still underway.

Authorities further claimed that between 15 and 20 government vehicles, along with other public property, were damaged during the incident.

Around 70 protesters detained, legal action initiated

Delhi Police said around 70 protesters have been detained following the violence. It added that an FIR is being registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws for offences including rioting, assault on public servants and damage to public property.

Reiterating its commitment to maintaining law and order, Delhi Police said strict legal action would be taken against those found involved in unlawful and violent activities.

A day after violent confrontations during the ‘Sansad Chalo’ march in Delhi, protesters associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) gathered once again at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday, declaring that their agitation would continue.

Supporters began arriving at the protest site early in the morning following the group’s call to resume demonstrations. Delhi Police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel maintained a heavy security presence around Jantar Mantar to prevent any untoward incidents.

Monday’s march ended in clashes

The renewed protest comes after Monday’s march towards Parliament witnessed clashes between protesters and police, resulting in injuries on both sides.

According to Delhi Police, more than 100 police personnel and over 60 protesters were injured after security forces used tear gas shells and conducted a lathicharge to disperse demonstrators who had moved close to Parliament. Police also said around 70 protesters were detained and an FIR was registered against unidentified persons in connection with alleged violence and vandalism.

In its statement, Delhi Police alleged that protesters behaved in an “unruly, aggressive and violent” manner and ignored repeated warnings and prohibitory orders.

The protesters, however, accused the police of using excessive force during the march, claiming that several students were injured in the action.

Government holds talks with CJP leaders

Amid the tensions, the Centre initiated discussions with protest leaders on Monday.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda met CJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka at his residence and heard the group’s demands.

During the meeting, CJP sought the unconditional release of activist Sonam Wangchuk, the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and ₹1 crore compensation for families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET 2026 paper leak.

Following the meeting, JP Nadda said on X that CJP representatives had submitted a written petition and that the discussion was initiated after the organisation approached the government for dialogue.

Speaking after the meeting, Saurav Das said the minister had assured the delegation that their demands would be discussed at the appropriate level but had not made any commitments. He added that the protest would continue until their demands were addressed.

Sonam Wangchuk to continue fast

Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk announced that he would continue his hunger strike until youth representatives are allowed to meet Members of Parliament inside Parliament or MPs visit him at the Delhi hospital where he is currently admitted.

In a handwritten note shared by his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, Wangchuk expressed solidarity with the protesters and said he had decided to continue his fast after witnessing what he described as the treatment of peacefully protesting youth.

Students protesting against alleged irregularities in major examinations, including question paper leaks and technical glitches, clashed with police in Delhi on Monday as they attempted to march towards Parliament. The demonstration drew sharp political reactions, with Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticising the police action and accusing the Centre of suppressing peaceful protests.

Rahul Gandhi criticises police action

Reacting to the incident, Rahul Gandhi said the protesting students were demanding their rights and described the use of tear gas and baton charges as unacceptable.

In a video message, he said there was “absolutely nothing wrong” with the students’ protest and alleged that the government’s response was undemocratic. Gandhi also described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the “most anti-youth prime minister” while sharing a video that purportedly showed the police action against demonstrators.

According to Gandhi, young people have the right to an education system that is fair, functional and respectful towards students. He added that India, with a large youth population, should listen to their concerns rather than suppress their voices.

Protest linked to exam issues and CJP campaign

The protest was organised by supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement, which has gained significant attention on social media over issues related to the education system and unemployment.

The demonstration came shortly after activist Sonam Wangchuk’s 21-day hunger strike ended when he was taken to a hospital on Saturday.

CJP alleged on social media that police used tear gas against peaceful protesters and questioned the need for such action.

Police said permission had not been granted for the march, while internet services were suspended in parts of central Delhi during the protest.

Government holds talks with protesters

Rahul Gandhi also urged the Prime Minister to address the protesters’ demands, saying concerns over the education system were legitimate and should be taken seriously.

Meanwhile, CJP said two of its representatives met Union Minister JP Nadda and submitted a written memorandum outlining their demands after the government initiated contact for discussions.

Confirming the meeting, JP Nadda said the talks were held in a cordial atmosphere. He stated that the proposal for dialogue came from the protesters and that discussions had been underway since late morning.

According to the minister, the delegation submitted a written petition in the afternoon, following which he appealed to the protesters to end their sit-in and cooperate with authorities in restoring normalcy.