The CJP protest in Delhi caused major disruption across the national capital on Thursday as security restrictions expanded around Jantar Mantar. Seventeen Delhi Metro stations were closed, mobile internet was suspended within a 1.5-kilometre radius of the protest site, and businesses in Connaught Place were advised to shut early.
The protest, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, has continued over demands linked to the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. Demonstrators are seeking accountability within the education system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The government has offered further discussions, but disagreement over the meeting venue has prevented a fresh round of talks.
CJP Protest Leads to Closure of 17 Delhi Metro Stations
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation announced the closure of several important stations in central Delhi for security reasons. The affected stations included Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, Mandi House, ITO, Khan Market, Janpath, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court and Patel Chowk.
Jhandewalan was later added to the list, taking the number of closed stations to 17. Interchange services remained available at selected stations, but passengers could not enter or exit through the affected locations.
The restrictions created long delays for office workers, students, lawyers and other commuters. Central Delhi depends heavily on the Metro, particularly during working hours. The sudden closures forced many passengers to use buses, taxis and alternative routes through areas already affected by traffic diversions.
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Mobile Internet Suspended Around Jantar Mantar
The Ministry of Home Affairs said mobile internet services would remain suspended until midnight within a 1.5-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar. The restriction added to concerns among protesters, residents and businesses about access to communication during the tense situation.
Authorities generally use temporary internet restrictions to limit the rapid spread of rumours and coordinate public-order measures. However, such restrictions can also affect digital payments, navigation, emergency communication and the ability of journalists or citizens to share verified information.
Delhi Police separately rejected social media claims that an overnight crackdown was planned. The police asked people not to circulate misleading or unverified information. This clarification came after speculation about possible police action had spread online.
Connaught Place Businesses Asked to Close Early
Shops, offices and restaurants in Connaught Place were asked to close by 6.30 pm. The New Delhi Traders Association issued the advisory after receiving guidance from civic officials, citing the situation around the commercial district.
The early closure affected one of Delhi's busiest shopping and business areas. Traders were asked to cooperate with the directions to reduce the risk of injuries or damage if crowds moved beyond the protest zone.
The combined effect of Metro closures, traffic diversions, internet restrictions and early business shutdowns showed how widely the protest was affecting daily life beyond Jantar Mantar.
Government Offers Talks but Venue Dispute Continues
Union minister Jitendra Singh said the government had sent several formal proposals for discussions with CJP representatives. He stated that Union Health Minister JP Nadda and other government representatives were prepared to discuss the protesters' concerns.
CJP representatives said they remained open to dialogue but did not want the meeting to take place at a minister's residence or office. They asked for talks at Jantar Mantar or another neutral location close to the protest site.
The dispute over the venue has become an important obstacle. The government says its invitation remains open, while CJP leaders argue that negotiations should happen in a setting acceptable to the protesting students.
CJP Repeats Demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's Resignation
CJP representatives continued to insist that Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation was central to their demands. They argued that punishing people after a paper leak would not be enough without accountability for failures that allowed the leak to happen.
The group responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement on fast-track courts by asking the government to focus on prevention as well as punishment. CJP representative Ashutosh Ranka alleged that organised networks and corruption within the examination system needed to be addressed.
The Prime Minister had said fast-track courts would ensure swift and strict punishment for those involved in paper leaks. He also said officials had been directed to take the necessary steps to safeguard students' interests.
The announcement marked a significant government response, but it did not end the agitation. Protest leaders said they wanted clear responsibility to be fixed and measures that would stop future examination leaks before students were affected.
Sonam Wangchuk Appeals for Peace
Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk appealed to protesters to remain peaceful. He said violence had no place in the movement and urged supporters to respond calmly even if anti-social elements attempted to provoke unrest.
Wangchuk's hunger strike has become one of the most visible parts of the agitation. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said protesters wanted Wangchuk to end his fast because of concerns about his health, but the movement would continue until its demands were addressed.
Police reported injuries to officers during earlier confrontations near Connaught Place and Parliament Street. Protest organisers have accused outsiders of trying to disrupt the agitation, while authorities have asked demonstrators to respect security restrictions. These competing claims remain under public scrutiny.
Delhi University Cautions Students About Unlawful Gatherings
Delhi University issued an advisory cautioning students against joining unlawful gatherings at Jantar Mantar. The advisory came as student participation and solidarity demonstrations increased in Delhi and other cities.
The movement has spread through social media, with students and supporters using videos, satire and online campaigns to discuss paper leaks, examination fairness and youth unemployment. Support gatherings have also been reported outside Delhi.
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What Happens Next in the CJP Protest?
The next major development will depend on whether the government and CJP representatives agree on a venue for formal talks. A meeting could create a path towards specific commitments on examination security, accountability and the demand concerning the Education Minister.
Security restrictions may continue if large crowds remain at Jantar Mantar. Commuters should check official Delhi Metro updates before travelling through central Delhi. People should also rely on verified police, government and transport announcements rather than unconfirmed social media posts.
The CJP protest has moved beyond a single demonstration. It has become a wider debate about the credibility of competitive examinations, the consequences of paper leaks and how quickly institutions respond when students raise concerns. The government has announced tougher action, but protesters are waiting for decisions they consider concrete and accountable.
CJP Protest Delhi FAQs
Why is the CJP protesting at Jantar Mantar?
The CJP is protesting over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and wider concerns about examination integrity. Its main demands include accountability and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
How many Delhi Metro stations were closed?
Seventeen Metro stations were reported closed for security reasons as the protest intensified. Interchange services remained available at selected stations, but entry and exit were restricted.
Was mobile internet suspended near Jantar Mantar?
Yes. Mobile internet was suspended within a 1.5-kilometre radius of Jantar Mantar until midnight, according to the Home Ministry update.
Is the government ready to hold talks with CJP?
The government says it has repeatedly invited CJP representatives for discussions. CJP says it is ready to talk but wants the meeting at Jantar Mantar or a neutral venue instead of a minister's residence or office.