India's youth-led Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement is proceeding with its planned 'Chalo Sansad' march to parliament in New Delhi on Monday, despite a clear denial of permission from Delhi Police. The protesters demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over a major exam paper leak scandal.

DW correspondent Shalu Yadav reports from the scene at Jantar Mantar that the area has been turned into a fortress, with hundreds of police and paramilitary forces deployed, multi-layer barricades, and riot vehicles lining the roads. Police are repeatedly broadcasting announcements asking protesters to move inside Jantar Mantar, but the designated protest site is overcrowded.

On Sunday evening, Delhi Police issued a public advisory stating that no permission had been sought or granted for any such march, and imposed prohibitory orders under Section 144 in New Delhi district, banning gatherings of five or more people. Police cited the start of parliament's monsoon session and the need for strict security arrangements.

CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke released a video message on Instagram late Sunday, calling for a peaceful and disciplined protest. He urged participants to carry roses, pictures of Mahatma Gandhi, or copies of the Indian Constitution as symbols of non-violent resistance.

The movement gained fresh momentum over the weekend after prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike in support of the demand, was forcibly removed from Jantar Mantar and taken to a hospital. Wangchuk's removal has drawn criticism and galvanized supporters.

Source: www.dw.com