In India, a youth movement called the 'Cockroaches' (Cockroach Janta Party) is holding nationwide protests demanding educational reforms. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Between July 20 and 26, 2026, demonstrations and rallies took place in New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, significantly damaging the political image of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The main demand of the protesters is a radical overhaul of the education system.
The movement's name derives from the word 'cockroach', as young people consider themselves 'indestructible' and 'adaptable to any conditions'. Participants wore cockroach masks to express dissatisfaction with the government's education policy.
As a result of the protests, India's Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned on July 25, 2026. This was seen as a victory for the movement and was celebrated with festive marches in Mumbai.
During the marches, protesters displayed a portrait of Narendra Modi draped in a saree (traditional women's garment), satirically criticizing the government's actions. This tactic went viral on social media and boosted the movement's popularity.
Associated Press photojournalists Vipin, Rafiq Maqbool, Verda Subzwari, and Aijaz Rahi documented these events, showing the scale of the protests.
Experts say the 'Cockroaches' movement reflects the growing political activism of India's new generation. Young people have proven they can pressure the government not only on social media but also on the streets.
This event highlighted public discontent with the Modi government's education policy and could impact the political landscape ahead of future elections. Movement leaders have vowed to continue their struggle until reforms are fully implemented.