Youth protests gain momentum in India

Thousands of students, parents, activists and political leaders marched towards India’s parliament in New Delhi, calling for reforms to the country’s education system, Reuters reported.

The demonstration was organised by the youth wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). 

Delhi Police said the march had not been authorised and attempted to disperse protesters using tear gas. The demonstrators are demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. 

The protests were triggered by the authorities’ decision to cancel the results of medical entrance examinations for more than one million candidates after examination papers were leaked, forcing many applicants to retake the test. 

The protests have gathered momentum, particularly since July 18, when Sonam Wangchuk, a leader of the movement who had been on a 21-day hunger strike, was forcibly taken to hospital. 

The youth movement has attracted millions of supporters across social media platforms.