Kejriwal Criticizes Modi Amid NEET Protest Demands
Amid rising protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET exam, Arvind Kejriwal has criticized Prime Minister Modi for his arrogance and called for dialogue with demonstrators. Thousands of protesters, led by the Cockroach People's Party (CJP), have been demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Kejriwal emphasized the need for the government to listen to the youth's demands for justice instead of resorting to force. The protests have gained momentum following activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, highlighting the urgent need for reform in the examination system. This article delves into the ongoing protests and the political responses surrounding them.
| Jul 20, 2026, 18:38 IST
Kejriwal's Call for Dialogue Amid Protests
In response to escalating protests by the 'Cockroach People's Party' (CJP) regarding alleged irregularities in the NEET exam and paper leaks, Arvind Kejriwal, the national convenor of AAP, criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "arrogance" on Monday. He urged the Prime Minister to listen to the demonstrators and refrain from using force against them. Thousands of protesters attempted to march towards Parliament demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also called on the central government to heed the protesters' demands, while several AAP leaders joined the demonstration in solidarity. In a video shared on social media, Kejriwal stated that millions of youth have gathered at Jantar Mantar, yet instead of addressing their concerns, the government has ordered a crackdown on them. He highlighted the internet shutdown in the area and the obstruction of their march towards Parliament, deeming it unacceptable.
Protests Intensify Over NEET Exam Issues
Kejriwal further appealed to the government, emphasizing that these are the children of the nation demanding justice, and it is wrong to respond with violence. Earlier in the day, AAP leaders, including opposition leader Atishi, former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, participated in the CJP protests to show solidarity. Thousands of demonstrators gathered in central Delhi and attempted to march towards Parliament, but police responded with tear gas and batons. This protest was sparked by allegations of irregularities in the NEET exam and gained momentum following activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike. On Sunday, Sisodia had urged political parties to join the march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament to demand Pradhan's resignation over the NEET paper leak and exam issues.
CJP Leads Movement for Exam Reform
Addressing the crowd at Jantar Mantar, where CJP is spearheading the movement for reform in the examination system, Sisodia remarked that this issue transcends politics. Thousands of protesters participated, receiving support from AAP leaders, while Kejriwal and Mann reiterated their appeal for the central government to listen to the demonstrators, who are demanding action on the exam irregularities and the resignation of Pradhan.