Tensions Rise as Protesters Clash with Police on Parliament Street Over Education Reforms

In a dramatic turn of events in New Delhi, thousands of protesters clashed with police on Parliament Street while demanding urgent education reforms. The protest, organized by the Cockroach Janta Party, saw participants from various student groups and professionals. As tensions escalated, police deployed tear gas and made several arrests. The situation intensified when demonstrators breached barricades, leading to injuries on both sides. With internet services suspended in the area and heightened security measures in place, the protest highlights the growing unrest surrounding educational policies in India. Notable political figures also joined the demonstration, amplifying the call for change.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 20, 2026, 16:55 IST

Protest Erupts in New Delhi

New Delhi: On Monday, the Delhi Police resorted to tear gas and batons as thousands of demonstrators advanced towards Parliament, coinciding with the commencement of the Monsoon Session.

The protest, organized by the online group Cockroach Janta Party, aimed at advocating for educational reforms and saw participation from various student organizations including AISA, KYS, and SFI, along with numerous professionals.

Tensions escalated around 11:15 AM when protesters breached a significant barricade near the Parliament Street Police Station, making their way towards Parliament, located just over a kilometer from the Jantar Mantar protest site.

By 11:25 AM, amidst chants of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', 'Vande Matram', and 'Inquilab Zindabad', demonstrators attempted to push through multiple barricades in the high-security area, resulting in a scuffle.

Some individuals in the crowd hurled objects, causing injuries to several people, including police officers. Many protesters were also seen with injuries, and some police personnel were bleeding.

"We are here to demand education reforms. We will not retreat without being heard. We fear no jail," declared a protester as police took them away.

Tear gas was also deployed outside Gate 2 of the Central Secretariat Metro Station, leading to the detention of over 20 protesters, according to officials.

In response to the unrest, internet services in parts of New Delhi were suspended by operators following orders from authorities.

By 1 PM, police enforced Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), prohibiting any gatherings in the vicinity.

A significant presence of police and paramilitary forces was established throughout central Delhi to manage the situation.

"Given the sensitivity of the area, security measures have been intensified across New Delhi. Additional paramilitary units have been deployed, and personnel from various police departments are on duty to ensure order," stated an officer.

Riot gear-clad paramilitary forces were stationed the previous night, with more units arriving on Monday.

Police from neighboring districts were also called in to oversee key intersections, sensitive sites, and government buildings in the Lutyens' area ahead of the march.

Notable attendees included Azad Samaj Party MP Chandrashekhar Azad and Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav, who joined the protest.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation temporarily closed five stations: Rajiv Chowk, Janpath, Patel Chowk, Central Secretariat, and Seva Teerth.

The Cockroach Janta Party had planned this march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.