New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Cockroach Janata Party founder Abhijeet Dipke has alleged that he was detained and physically assaulted by the Delhi Police during the protest at Jantar Mantar, where demonstrators have been demanding action over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.
Dipke claimed the police intervened after activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been observing an indefinite hunger strike, was shifted to a hospital following concerns over his health. According to Dipke, the police action triggered confusion at the protest site, with several supporters being removed.
In a statement shared on social media, Dipke alleged that he was taken into custody after objecting to the manner in which the protest was dispersed. He further accused the authorities of using force against demonstrators, describing the police action as an attempt to suppress a peaceful movement.
The activist also reiterated his earlier claim that there had been attempts to disrupt the protest in recent days. He said he had previously warned about possible interference and alleged that unidentified individuals had tried to create disturbances at the venue.
Dipke maintained that the agitation had remained non-violent since it began and said any action against protesters would only strengthen their resolve. He urged supporters to continue raising their voices through democratic means while demanding transparency and accountability over the examination controversy.
The protest, led by the Cockroach Janata Party, has been underway at Jantar Mantar since June 20. The organisation has been seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, a judicial investigation into the alleged NEET irregularities, and broader reforms in the country’s examination system.
Sonam Wangchuk, who joined the agitation on June 28, had been on an indefinite hunger strike before being shifted to a hospital on medical advice after his health reportedly deteriorated. Police officials stated that the decision was taken following expert medical recommendations and directions from the court, while also requesting protesters to peacefully vacate the site. Meanwhile, supporters of the movement have criticised the police action and demanded that the protest be allowed to continue without interference.
