Thousands protest in Delhi for education reform as activist continues hunger strike
A new protest movement demanding education reform in India has drawn thousands of young people to the streets, highlighting deep frustrations over unemployment and the country's education system. The movement, known as the Common People's Party (CJP), despite its name, describes itself as a platform rather than a political party.
The CJP was founded by Abhijeet Dipke, a 30-year-old political communications strategist and former Boston University student. Dipke told the BBC that the idea began as a joke, but after offering a Google form for sign-ups, tens of thousands responded, transforming it into a serious protest group.
On July 20, the CJP announced a march to parliament in Delhi, drawing thousands of participants. Hundreds more attended protests and candle-lit vigils in other cities, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Goa.
The protests gained momentum after the treatment of Sonam Wangchuk, a well-known engineer and activist. Wangchuk began a hunger strike on June 28 at Jantar Mantar, a historic observatory in central Delhi often used for protests, in support of the CJP's demands. On July 20, the 59-year-old was forcibly taken to a hospital by authorities, sparking outrage among supporters and drawing additional attention to the movement. Wangchuk has continued fasting while in hospital.
The CJP's demands include reforms to India's education system, which many critics say fails to prepare young people for the job market. India faces high youth unemployment, with official figures showing that nearly one-third of young people are neither employed nor in education or training. Protesters argue that the current system prioritizes rote learning and does not equip students with practical skills.
Dipke and other organizers say they will continue peaceful protests until their demands are met. The movement has also called for greater transparency and accountability in educational institutions. The government has not yet issued a formal response to the protests, but authorities have warned against unlawful assemblies.
